DPR Chairman Reminds Appointment Of Acting Regional Head To Be Free From Political Interests

Speaker of the House of Representatives Puan Maharani/DOK ISTIMEWA

JAKARTA - The chairman of the DPR, Puan Maharani, has asked the government to carry out the selection process for regional heads in a transparent manner and open to public participation.

As is known, the Simultaneous Pilkada will be held in November 2024. To fill the vacancy of 272 regional head positions whose terms end in 2022 and 2023, regional head officials will be appointed until a new regional head is elected.

Puan reminded the acting regional heads that they must be free from political interests.

"Prepare adequate facilities if the community wants to provide input. Carry out screening in a measured manner and free from political interests," said Puan to reporters, Monday, April 18. The chairman of the PDIP DPP hopes that the government in this case the Ministry of Home Affairs (Kemendagri) will be careful in carrying out the screening process and determining regional officials with abilities that are in accordance with regional characteristics.

Puan assessed that it is very important for the government to appoint an acting regional head who understands the social and economic needs of the region he will lead. Especially now that people are still affected by the pandemic.

"Not after taking office, just study again from zero the area he leads. Remember, now the people need a super-fast economic recovery from the impact of COVID-19," said Puan.

The former Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture also asked the government to conduct regular monitoring and evaluation. So, he said, evaluation does not need to be done by waiting for his term of office to expire.

"If in the middle of the road the performance of the Acting Regional Head starts to look lethargic, especially if he is caught taking advantage of his position, immediately evaluate and take firm action according to the applicable rules," said Puan.

According to him, the participation of civil society and the media is needed to supervise the Acting Regional Heads extra closely. He also asked the government to pay attention to input and considerations from the DPR, especially Commission II as the people's representation.

"This super tight supervision is absolute as compensation for the position of the Acting Regional Head appointed by the government, not chosen by the people," said Puan.