PAN Suspends Langkat Regent Ondim from North Sumatra Chairman Post After KPK Arrest

The National Mandate Party (PAN) has suspended Syah Afandin, also known as Ondim, from his position as the chairman of its North Sumatra branch. The decision comes after Afandin, who also serves as the Regent of Langkat, was apprehended in a sting operation conducted by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK). He was arrested along with six other individuals on Thursday, July 2, and has since been transported to Jakarta for further investigation. Viva Yoga Mauladi, Deputy Chairman of PAN, expressed the party's sadness and concern over the alleged legal violations by one of its cadres. "PAN has suspended Syah Afandin as the Chairman of PAN North Sumatra, and the leadership of PAN North Sumatra has been taken over by the central board," Viva stated on Friday, July 3. He further emphasized that PAN fully respects the KPK's ongoing legal proceedings, characterizing them as professional, objective, and transparent. Mauladi asserted that any alleged legal infractions are the personal responsibility of the individual and run counter to PAN's platform of promoting clean governance. He noted that PAN Chairman Zulkifli Hasan consistently reminds PAN cadres in executive and legislative positions to uphold integrity, adhere to the law, and exercise caution in their actions. "PAN apologizes for the legal violations by its cadre. PAN will continue to foster the character and integrity of its cadres and enhance their knowledge capacity in carrying out their duties," added Viva, who also holds the position of Deputy Minister of Transmigration. Earlier reports indicated that the KPK's sting operation in North Sumatra was related to alleged bribery involving projects in the Langkat Regency's education and public housing departments. KPK Deputy Chairman Fitroh Rohcahyanto confirmed the arrests, stating that a total of seven individuals were apprehended: one state official (the Regent), one civil servant from the Langkat Regency government, and five private sector individuals.

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PAN has suspended Syah Afandin as the Chairman of PAN North Sumatra, and the leadership of PAN North Sumatra has been taken over by the central board.