Tom Lembong Affirms All Policies Follow Jokowi's Directives, Often Consulting On Imports

JAKARTA - Former Trade Minister Thomas Trikasih Lembong alias Tom Lembong stated that all decisions and policies issued were only carrying out orders and for the sake of the community.

This statement was made by Tom Lembong when he was presented online at the trial of the pretrial lawsuit in the alleged corruption case of sugar impotation at the Ministry of Trade for the period 2015 to 2016.

"In all decisions and policies, including sugar imports which are now in question, I always prioritize the interests of the community," said Tom Lembong, Thursday, November 21.

Selain itu, Tom Lembong juga menyampaikan apa yang dilakukannya hanya menjalankan perintah Presiden yang saat itu dijabat oleh Joko Widodo

"Implementing the president's order as stated in discussions at various cabinet sessions," he said.

Because, when Jokowi served as the number one person in Indonesia, price problems and adequacy of food availability became the main focus.

All policies and decisions taken were the result of consultations with Jokowi.

"So, I often consult with him, formal or informal, including regarding imports," said Tom Lembong.

On the other hand, Tom Lembong also emphasized that before being named a suspect, there had never been a warning or sanction from any party regarding the decisions and policies he made.

It has never even been the subject of alleged violations by the Supreme Audit Agency (BPK) or the Financial and Development Supervisory Agency (BPKP).

"Before my determination as a suspect, I had never received and received a warning or sanction from any party. And it has never been a subject of investigation, including by BPKP or BPK and has never been asked to clarify my policy as Minister of Trade," said Tom Lembong.