Why Regional Leaders Corrupt Despite Attending Retreats

Despite government efforts to instill integrity, ten regional heads have been caught in corruption scandals this year. The Ministry of Home Affairs organized retreats, including anti-corruption training, for these leaders at the Military Academy in Magelang, Central Java. Minister Tito Karnavian stated these retreats aimed to equip regional heads for their duties with integrity, discipline, and nationalism.

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But after the retreat, it returns to each individual (regional head).

However, Karnavian acknowledged that after the retreats, the responsibility rests with the individuals. He emphasized that the central government cannot constantly monitor regional leaders, who are elected by the people. "They are not small children who need to be monitored 24/7," he said.

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They are not small children who need to be monitored 24/7.

Karnavian identified two primary reasons for regional leaders engaging in corruption. Firstly, he pointed to the expensive election system, which pressures elected officials to recoup their campaign expenses. He also noted that the official salaries and benefits for regional heads are relatively low compared to their needs, leading them to seek additional income through corrupt means.

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The expensive election system makes regional heads want to replace the money they have spent after being elected.

The second factor, Karnavian explained, is personal greed, which erodes a regional leader's integrity and drives them to accumulate wealth through illicit activities. The Ministry of Home Affairs is collaborating with the Corruption Eradication Commission and other agencies to mitigate these issues. They are also implementing a digital system for regional financial management to enhance transparency, though Karnavian clarified the ministry's role is advisory, not command-based.

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So they look for additional (income) through corruption.