Indonesia’s anti-graft agency, the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK), is planning to question the youngest son of President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo, Kaesang Pangarep. The agency’s Deputy Chief, Alexander Marwata, stated on Wednesday that they will investigate Kaesang’s recent overseas trip, particularly his use of a private jet and the funding source for the travel.
This investigation follows public outrage stemming from details of the trip, which surfaced on social media posts by Kaesang’s wife. Public sentiment centers around the potential connection between Kaesang’s father’s official position and the use of the private jet.
Marwata emphasized that if the private jet was used due to Kaesang’s father’s position, then it could be considered as receiving improper gifts, violating rules prohibiting officials from accepting gifts. However, if there’s no connection, there wouldn’t be any issue.
Kaesang Pangarep, 29, has not yet responded to the request for comment, and the timing of the questioning remains unclear. The President’s office has also declined to comment on the matter.
This situation adds to the growing controversy surrounding President Widodo, who has faced increasing scrutiny in recent years. Once celebrated for his humble background and lack of ties to Indonesia’s elites when he took office in 2014, President Widodo is now facing accusations of establishing his own political dynasty. These accusations intensified after his eldest son, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, was elected as vice president in February and will be inaugurated on October 20, alongside President-elect Prabowo Subianto. The President has denied these accusations of building a political dynasty.
