Indonesian KPK Alleges Regent Received $230,000 in Bribes for School Posts

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has uncovered allegations that the Regent of Langkat, Syah Afandin, received approximately Rp3.5 billion in gratification. This alleged illicit income is reportedly linked to the appointment of school principals and the procurement of school uniforms.

Achmad Taufik Husein, the acting Director of Investigation at the KPK, expressed deep concern over the situation. He stated that such practices not only undermine governmental administration but also harm the future of education. "When the position of a school principal is traded, what is at stake is not only the governance but also the future of children's education," Husein said.

The gratification money is also suspected to have been distributed for filling positions within the Langkat Education Office and for the appointment of sub-district heads (camat). This alleged corruption has reportedly caused unrest among civil servants in the Langkat Regency.

The KPK conducted a sting operation on July 2, 2026, in Langkat, Binjai, and Medan, North Sumatra, arresting Afandin and five private individuals. The following day, Afandin and his former campaign team member, Yaqub Abdhal Al Mu'arif, were named suspects in a bribery case related to projects in the Langkat Regency for the 2025-2026 period. Afandin allegedly received Rp800 million from Al Mu'arif, part of a total deal worth Rp1.117 billion, after Al Mu'arif secured 85 projects.