Members of Indonesian President Joko Widodo’s young set of advisers have come under fire over conflicts of interest regarding double roles in the Public Service and private sector, with some instances coming to light during the COVID-19 outbreak.
Co-founder of education technology company Ruangguru, Adamas Belva Devara (pictured) experienced a backlash after it was named as one of the Government’s eight partners in a pre-employment program.
Mr Belva tweeted that he played no part in any decision-making in the appointment.
“All decisions were made independently by the Coordinating Economic Ministry and Operational Management,” Mr Belva tweeted.
Head of activist group, Indonesian Corruption Watch, Egi Primayogha said no Public Servant should take a role that had the potential to create conflicts of interest.
“So, whatever the reasoning, Belva is still in trouble,” Mr Primayogha said.
Earlier, Presidential staffer, Andi Taufan Garuda Putra had drawn criticism over a letter asking for local leaders’ support of a COVID-19 relief program led by his company, PT Amartha Mikro Fintek.
Staffer, Angkie Yudistia received criticism about hoaxes she posted on her Instagram account. The post, which has since been deleted, spread false information about the detection of COVID-19.
Staffer, Billy Mambrasar also got into trouble after posting a tweet that demeaned members of Opposition parties.
Jakarta, 17 April, 2020
