Corruption Probe Deepens: KPK Searches Djan Faridz’s House in Harun Masiku Bribery Case
the Corruption eradication Commission (KPK) has widened its investigation into the Harun Masiku bribery case, conducting a search at the home of former prosperous Justice Party (PKS) Chairman Djan faridz. This comes as the KPK continues to scrutinize the alleged efforts to secure a parliamentary seat for Masiku, a fugitive on trial for bribery.
“The latest data is that we are searching Djan Faridz’s house,”
KPK spokesperson Tessa Mahardika confirmed to reporters on Wednesday, January 22, 2025. Attempts to reach Djan Faridz and the PKS for comment have been unsuccessful.
The KPK’s search warrant was issued in connection with the ongoing probe into Harun Masiku, who is accused of orchestrating a bribery scheme to secure a seat in the House of Representatives (DPR) through a process known as paw (co-optation). Masiku was a candidate for the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) in the 2019 legislative elections.
The investigation began with a sting operation (OTT) by the KPK in 2020, leading to the arrest of several individuals, including Wahyu setiawan, a former commissioner of the General Elections Commission (KPU), his confidante Agustiani Tio, and a private individual named Saeful.
The court has already convicted Wahyu, Agustiani, and Saeful, finding Wahyu guilty of accepting approximately Rp 600 million in bribes to facilitate Masiku’s entry into the DPR through PAW.
Masiku himself remains evading authorities, becoming a fugitive from justice. In a recent turn of events, the KPK also named PDIP Secretary General Hasto Kristiyanto and lawyer Donny Tri Istiqomah as suspects in the case.
The KPK alleges that hasto sought to prevent riezky aprilia, who secured the second highest number of votes in Masiku’s electoral district, from assuming his seat through PAW after the death of Nazaruddin Kiemas, a senior PDIP politician.
According to the KPK, Hasto allegedly directed Donny to produce legal documentation regarding the implementation of a Supreme Court ruling related to PAW and requested the KPU to comply with the court’s instructions. The KPK maintains that Hasto pressured the KPU to expedite the implementation of the Supreme court’s ruling to pave the way for Masiku’s ascension to the DPR. Hasto is also accused of instructing Donny to lobby Wahyu Setiawan to appoint Masiku as the elected member of the DPR from South Sumatra’s First Electoral District. Moreover, Donny was reportedly directed by Hasto to deliver the bribe money to Wahyu.
the KPK suspects that a portion of the bribe money intended for Wahyu originated from Hasto.Moreover, the anti-corruption agency alleges that Hasto attempted to obstruct the investigation into Harun Masiku’s case. As a preventive measure, the KPK has restricted Hasto’s travel abroad.
This case continues to unfold, with the KPK working to unravel the intricate web of alleged corruption and influence peddling.
given Dr. Rahim’s expertise in corruption, how might technology specifically be utilized to assist the KPK’s investigation in identifying the financial flows related to alleged bribes within the Harun Masiku case?
Interview with Dr. Amina Rahim, anti-Corruption Specialist and 2025 OECD Global Anti-Corruption and Integrity Forum Speaker
Archyde News, January 28, 2025
News Editor (NE): Good day, Dr. Amina Rahim. We’re honored to have you with us today. You’re set to speak at the 2025 OECD Global Anti-Corruption and Integrity Forum in March. Given your expertise, we thought it would be insightful to discuss the current developments in corruption cases and the role of technology in combating corruption.
Dr. Amina Rahim (AR): Thank you for having me.I’m excited to share my insights and contribute to this crucial conversation.
NE: Let’s dive right in.The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) in Indonesia has recently widened its investigation into the Harun Masiku bribery case, conducting searches at the residence of Djan Faridz. How do you see these developments?
AR: These developments are part of a global trend where anti-corruption agencies are stepping up their efforts and leveraging advanced investigative techniques. The KPK has been commended for its bold approach, and this case is no different. As corruption undermines progress and erodes public trust, robust investigations like these are essential.
NE: Speaking of advanced techniques, the OECD Forum you’re speaking at will focus on the role of emerging technologies such as AI and data analysis in fighting corruption. How can these technologies aid investigations like the Harun Masiku case?
AR: Emerging technologies can greatly augment anti-corruption efforts.Here’s how they can help:
- Data Analysis: Large datasets can be analyzed to identify suspicious patterns or outliers that may indicate corruption. In the Harun Masiku case, for instance, analyzing procurement or contract data could help trace the flow of bribe money.
- AI for Predictive Analysis: AI can predict which sectors,agencies,or officials might be at higher risk of corruption. This proactive approach enables agencies like the KPK to focus their resources more effectively.
- AI-driven Chatbots and Whistleblower Platforms: Technology can also foster transparency and encourage reporting. AI chatbots can provide safe, anonymous platforms for whistleblowers to share information.
- Forensic Analysis: Digital evidence collection and analysis are crucial in corruption cases, especially as more transactions move online. Tools like e-revelation platforms can help investigators piece together complex webs of corruption.
NE: That’s fascinating. But how do we address the challenges these technologies pose, such as privacy concerns and the digital divide?
AR: That’s a critical aspect we need to address. Laws and regulations must be in place to safeguard privacy and civil liberties. Moreover, any technology employed in anti-corruption efforts must be accessible and fair, bridging the digital divide rather than exacerbating it.This includes ensuring that small businesses and marginalized communities aren’t left behind.
NE: Dr. Rahim, thank you for sharing your insights. We look forward to your speech at the 2025 OECD Global Anti-Corruption and Integrity Forum.
AR: My pleasure. I look forward to the event and the prospect to engage with stakeholders from around the world.Thank you.
