Controversy of KPK Chairman Firli Bahuri: Challenges of Declining Ethics and Trust

Corruption Eradication Commission Chairman Firli Bahuri met with Syahrul Yasin Limpo. (Spc)

The chairman of the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK), Firli Bahuri, has once again received public attention after his controversial actions following the investigation by Metro Jaya Police. His avoidance and hiding his face drew harsh criticism, especially from the Indonesia Corruption Watch (ICW), which saw him as similar to corrupt behavior.

The Indonesian Anti-Corruption Society (MAKI) considers Firli's action of hiding in the car with his face covered as a very embarrassing attitude, not in line with the image of a leader. Firli was summoned regarding allegations of extortion against former Minister of Agriculture Syarul Yasin Limpo, after previously failing to attend several summons.

Regarding the process of the alleged extortion case against Syarul Yasin Limpo, the police conducted a search at Firli Bahuri's house in Bekasi and Kertanegara Street 46, South Jakarta. The status of this house in Kertanegara was raised because it was not reported in the State Officials' Wealth Report (LHKPN), an obligation for state officials with sanctions for those who violate it.

It was later discovered that the house was rented by businessman Alek Tirta, Chairman of PBSI DKI Jakarta, who was also investigated regarding allegations of gratification. Alek Tirta stated that he only rented for a few years, and Firli personally continued the lease. At the rental house, the police confiscated several items that were considered helpful in the investigation.

In media records there are a number of controversies related to Firli Bahuri when he was Deputy for Enforcement and as Chairman of the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK). This retired three-star police officer was involved in a meeting without the leadership's permission with Baharullah Akbar, a witness in the balance fund bribery case, as well as a meeting with Tuan Guru Bajang Zainul Majdi regarding a corruption case without a letter of assignment.

Firli was also accused of living in luxury, using a helicopter on work visits, and accompanying his team when examining Papuan Governor Lukas Enembe in Jayapura. The case of leaking investigative documents at the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources also involves Firli's name.

The cases involving Firli Bahuri, especially the alleged extortion of Syahrul Yasin Limpo, shook public confidence in the KPK. Firli's involvement in this controversy created an ethical dilemma in the leadership of the KPK as a corruption cleaning agency. Firli's attitude in dealing with this case is crucial in rebuilding public trust in the KPK.

The question of whether Firli Bahuri will resign or stay highlights the importance of the partisanship and independence of this anti-corruption institution. Ethics in the leadership of the Corruption Eradication Commission must be upheld with transparency, accountability and consistency to ensure that the institution remains a guardian of integrity in fighting corruption.

To be honest, whether the matter will be proven or not, the chairman of the Corruption Eradication Commission or KPK (Firli Bahuri), a highly respected anti-corruption agency leader being questioned by the police regarding an alleged extortion case is already very embarrassing.