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JAKARTA – The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) has officially confirmed the interim replacement (Penggantian Antar Waktu – PAW) of an Ombudsman of the Republic of Indonesia member for the 2026-2031 term. This critical decision, made during a plenary session, addresses the vacancy created by the indictment of Hery Susanto on corruption charges, underscoring the nation’s commitment to upholding integrity within its independent oversight institutions. Wahidah Suaib, who ranked tenth in the previous selection process, has been designated to fill the position, ensuring continuity in the Ombudsman’s vital mandate.

The announcement came during a DPR Plenary Meeting held at the Parliament Complex in Senayan, Jakarta, on Tuesday, July 21, 2026. The session, chaired by Speaker of the DPR, Puan Maharani, formalized the process that had been deliberated and recommended by Commission II, the parliamentary body overseeing home affairs, state apparatus, and agrarian affairs. This move is not merely a procedural step but a strong affirmation of the principle that public officials, especially those tasked with safeguarding public service quality and preventing maladministration, must maintain an impeccable standard of ethics and accountability. The decision sends a clear message about the zero-tolerance policy towards corruption, particularly within institutions designed to champion good governance.

Background of the Ombudsman of the Republic of Indonesia

The Ombudsman of the Republic of Indonesia is an independent state institution established under Law No. 37 of 2008 concerning the Ombudsman of the Republic of Indonesia. Its primary mandate is to oversee the implementation of public services, prevent maladministration, and resolve reports from the public concerning alleged maladministration in the delivery of public services by government agencies and state-owned enterprises. The institution plays a crucial role in enhancing transparency, accountability, and the quality of public services, thereby strengthening democratic governance and protecting citizens’ rights.

Members of the Ombudsman are selected through a rigorous process involving nominations from the public, selection committees, and a final fit and proper test conducted by the DPR. This multi-stage process is designed to ensure that appointees possess the necessary qualifications, integrity, and independence to carry out their duties effectively. The term of office for Ombudsman members is five years, and they are expected to serve with utmost dedication, impartiality, and a commitment to justice. The institution’s effectiveness heavily relies on the public’s trust, which can be significantly eroded by any perceived or actual misconduct by its members. Therefore, swift and decisive action in cases of alleged corruption is paramount to preserving the Ombudsman’s credibility and operational capacity.

Chronology of Events Leading to the PAW

The sequence of events leading to the interim replacement began with the legal challenges faced by Hery Susanto. Although the specific date of his indictment is not provided in the original text, the reference to his alleged involvement in a Rp4.8 billion bribery case suggests a significant legal process would have unfolded prior to July 2026. This legal entanglement would have undoubtedly cast a shadow over his capacity to fulfill the duties of an Ombudsman member, even for an upcoming term.

1. Prior to July 2026: Hery Susanto, who was slated to serve as an Ombudsman member (and listed as Chairman) for the 2026-2031 term, became embroiled in a corruption scandal. Public reports and legal proceedings indicated his alleged involvement in a bribery scheme totaling Rp4.8 billion. This development would have immediately raised concerns about his eligibility and integrity for such a crucial oversight role.
2. Legal Proceedings and Indictment: As per the linked article, Hery Susanto was formally indicted for allegedly receiving bribes. The gravity of these charges, even if he maintained his innocence, created an untenable situation for his continued or future tenure in an institution dedicated to fighting maladministration.
3. Initiation of PAW Process: Following the unfolding legal situation, the DPR’s Commission II, responsible for overseeing the Ombudsman, initiated discussions regarding Hery Susanto’s replacement. The principle of public interest and maintaining the integrity of the Ombudsman institution would have guided these preliminary deliberations.
4. July 20, 2026 – Commission II Consultation: Puan Maharani reported that the leadership of Commission II had submitted the results of their deliberations regarding the selection and appointment of the PAW member for the Ombudsman RI for the 2026-2031 term. This submission occurred during a consultation meeting, which served as a substitute for a DPR Consultative Body (Bamus) meeting. In this session, Commission II would have reviewed the candidate list from the previous selection process and identified the next eligible candidate.
5. July 21, 2026 – DPR Plenary Meeting: The issue was brought before the full DPR in a Rapat Paripurna (Plenary Meeting). During this session, Speaker Puan Maharani formally presented Commission II’s recommendation for the PAW. She highlighted that based on the sequential numbering of candidates from the original fit and proper test for the Ombudsman RI, Wahidah Suaib, listed as candidate number 10, was the designated replacement. The plenary then proceeded to seek approval from all factions for the proposed replacement.
6. Formal Approval: The Rapat Paripurna formally approved the appointment of Wahidah Suaib as the interim replacement for the Ombudsman RI member for the 2026-2031 term. This final step cemented the decision and paved the way for Wahidah Suaib to assume her duties.

The PAW Process and Its Legal Framework

The Penggantian Antar Waktu (PAW) mechanism is a standard procedure in Indonesian legislative and institutional frameworks to ensure the continuity of public service when an elected or appointed official is unable to complete their term. For institutions like the Ombudsman, the PAW process is outlined in relevant laws and internal DPR regulations. It typically involves:

1. Notification of Vacancy: The institution or relevant state body informs the DPR of a vacancy due to resignation, death, permanent disability, or legal issues such as criminal indictment or conviction.
2. DPR Commission Review: The relevant DPR commission (in this case, Commission II) reviews the notification and assesses the grounds for the vacancy. They also refer to the original list of candidates who passed the fit and proper test for the position.
3. Candidate Selection: According to established procedures, the next highest-ranking candidate from the original pool who met all eligibility criteria and passed the fit and proper test is typically selected. This ensures that the replacement process is transparent and adheres to the merit-based selection originally conducted.
4. Commission Recommendation: The commission then forwards its recommendation to the DPR leadership.
5. Plenary Approval: The recommendation is presented to a DPR Plenary Meeting for final approval by all parliamentary factions. Once approved, the new member is officially appointed.

This structured process ensures legal compliance, maintains institutional stability, and upholds the integrity of the selection process even in unforeseen circumstances. The prompt execution of the PAW in Hery Susanto’s case demonstrates the DPR’s adherence to these procedures to safeguard the Ombudsman’s functionality and reputation.

Hery Susanto’s Corruption Case and Broader Context

The indictment of Hery Susanto for allegedly receiving Rp4.8 billion in bribes highlights a persistent challenge in Indonesia: corruption within public service. While Hery Susanto publicly denied the charges, stating, "Saya tidak terima uang" (I did not receive money), the formal indictment itself necessitates a strong response from the state apparatus. This amount, approximately equivalent to USD 300,000 (depending on prevailing exchange rates), represents a significant sum and, if proven, would constitute a serious breach of public trust.

Data from institutions like the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) consistently show that corruption remains a major impediment to Indonesia’s development and good governance. Various reports, including those from Transparency International’s Corruption Perception Index, indicate that while Indonesia has made strides in combating corruption, challenges persist, particularly concerning bribery and abuse of power in public office. The involvement of officials from oversight bodies in such scandals is particularly damaging, as it undermines the very foundation of accountability and transparency that these institutions are meant to uphold. When those meant to guard against maladministration are themselves implicated, public cynicism can deepen, eroding trust in government and state institutions. This incident, therefore, serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against corruption and the critical importance of integrity checks for all public officials, especially those in positions of trust.

Wahidah Suaib: The Designated Replacement

Wahidah Suaib, identified as candidate number 10 from the original selection process, now steps into this crucial role. While specific details about her background are not provided in the original article, her position on the eligibility list implies she underwent the same rigorous fit and proper test as other candidates and was deemed qualified for the position. Typically, individuals who reach this stage possess extensive experience in law, public administration, human rights, or related fields, often holding academic degrees, working as legal practitioners, or having a history of public service. Her appointment is a testament to the thoroughness of the initial selection process, which created a pool of qualified candidates ready to serve when needed. Her entry is expected to bring renewed focus and energy to the Ombudsman’s mandate, reinforcing the institution’s commitment to its mission despite the circumstances of her appointment.

Statements and Reactions

Speaker Puan Maharani’s statements during the plenary session underscored the procedural integrity of the DPR’s decision. "Sehubungan dengan hal tersebut pimpinan Komisi II telah menyampaikan hasil pembahasan pemilihan dan penetapan anggota pengganti antar waktu ombudsman RI masa jabatan 2026-2031 pada rapat konsultasi pengganti rapat bamus DPR RI tanggal 20 Juli 2026," she stated, emphasizing the formal steps taken. Her subsequent request for approval from the factions, "Untuk itu kami meminta persetujuan fraksi-fraksi apakah penetapan anggota pengganti antar waktu ombudsman RI masa jabatan 2026-2031 itu dapat disetujui," highlights the collective parliamentary endorsement of the decision.

While direct statements from the Ombudsman institution itself or anti-corruption bodies were not provided in the original text, it can be logically inferred that such bodies would welcome the swift resolution of the vacancy. The Ombudsman would likely issue a statement reaffirming its commitment to integrity and its mission, perhaps emphasizing that the institution remains steadfast in its role regardless of individual misconduct. Anti-corruption advocates and civil society organizations would likely praise the DPR’s decisive action, viewing it as a positive step towards maintaining ethical standards in public office and signaling that no position is immune from accountability. This event serves as a critical stress test for the integrity framework of public institutions, demonstrating that established mechanisms can effectively address ethical lapses.

Implications for Governance and Public Trust

The PAW of an Ombudsman member due to a corruption indictment carries significant implications for Indonesian governance and public trust.

1. Reinforcement of Accountability: The swift action by the DPR reinforces the principle that public officials, regardless of their position or the institution they represent, are accountable for their actions. It demonstrates that legal processes will take precedence when allegations of corruption arise, even for those in high-profile oversight roles.
2. Preservation of Institutional Integrity: For the Ombudsman RI, this decision is crucial for preserving its integrity and effectiveness. An institution tasked with fighting maladministration cannot afford to have its own members implicated in such serious ethical breaches. The replacement ensures that the Ombudsman can continue its work with renewed credibility and focus, free from the shadow of scandal.
3. Impact on Public Trust: Incidents of corruption involving public officials often erode public trust in government institutions. However, a decisive and transparent response, such as the PAW in this case, can help mitigate this damage. It signals to the public that mechanisms for accountability are functional and that misconduct will not be tolerated, potentially helping to restore faith in the system.
4. Strengthening Ethical Standards: This event serves as a powerful reminder to all public servants about the paramount importance of ethical conduct. It underscores that integrity is not merely a desirable trait but a fundamental requirement for anyone holding public office, especially in oversight and regulatory bodies.
5. Precedent for Future Cases: The handling of Hery Susanto’s replacement could set a precedent for how similar situations are managed in the future, further solidifying the framework for maintaining high ethical standards across various state institutions. It demonstrates a commitment to preventing individuals with compromised integrity from serving in critical public roles.

Conclusion

The DPR’s confirmation of Wahidah Suaib as the interim replacement for Hery Susanto in the Ombudsman RI for the 2026-2031 term represents a critical juncture in Indonesia’s ongoing efforts to uphold good governance and combat corruption. While the circumstances are regrettable, arising from a corruption indictment against a confirmed member, the decisive and procedural manner in which the replacement was handled underscores the strength of Indonesia’s institutional checks and balances. By ensuring that integrity remains a non-negotiable prerequisite for public service, particularly within an oversight body like the Ombudsman, the DPR has sent a clear message. This action is vital not only for the continued effectiveness and credibility of the Ombudsman but also for reinforcing public trust in the broader governmental framework, demonstrating that accountability and ethical conduct are cornerstones of a thriving democratic nation. The focus now shifts to Wahidah Suaib, who will undoubtedly be expected to uphold the highest standards of integrity and dedication in her crucial role to serve the Indonesian public.