Luhut Calls The OTT KPK Making Indonesia's Image Bad, ICW: Hard To Understand His Logic

Indonesia Corruption Watch (ICW). (Between)

JAKARTA - Indonesia Corruption Watch (ICW) admits that it is confused by the statement by the Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment (Menko Marinves) Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan who said that the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK)'s hand arrest operation (OTT) made Indonesia's image bad in the eyes of the world. ICW researcher Kurnia Ramadhana said that eradicating corruption, including through silent operations, could actually improve the image of the country in the world. The firm action taken by the KPK can also bring appreciation from all parties. "To be honest, it is difficult for us to understand Luhut's logic of thinking. In ICW's view, when law enforcement is enforced, especially the eradication of corruption is maximally carried out, Indonesia's image will automatically improve and be followed by appreciation from the world," said Kurnia in a written statement received by VOI, Tuesday, December 20. Kurnia also questioned the motive behind Luhut's statement. "Is Luhut Binsar's brother not happy if the KPK, which is the representation of the state, eradicates corruption," he said. Furthermore, ICW suspects that Luhut's statement was due to two things. First, the lack of literacy so that Luhut was reminded to read the news in 2013 when the KPK received the Ramon Magsaysay Award. This award was obtained when eradicating corruption could be carried out massively. "Secondly, Luhut does not understand what he said. OTT is the way the KPK takes action. On that basis, OTT should not be interfered with by any branch of power, including the executive, especially Luhut," he said. Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan previously reminded the KPK not to take action often. According to him, prevention should be carried out more optimally. "We just want to clean up really in heaven. So the KPK shouldn't catch a little bit. That's not good either, yes, look around," Luhut said in his speech at the Launch of Corruption Prevention Action 2023-2024 in the Central Jakarta area, Tuesday, December 20. Not only that, Luhut also considers that the hand-catching operation (OTT) that is often carried out by the anti-corruption commission also has a bad impact. So, he said, all procurement should be digitized so that corruption prevention can be carried out. "OTT, OTT is actually a good end for this country, it's really bad, that's it. But if digitalizes who wants to fight us," he said.