The Corruption Eradication Commission's (KPK) investigation into the Jakarta–Bandung High-Speed Rail (KCJB), also known as Whoosh, project is beginning to have political ramifications. President Joko Widodo, who has so far remained silent, has finally spoken out.
He emphasized that the project was not about profit, but rather about efficient mass transportation. However, political observer Rocky Gerung believes Jokowi's statement reflects his unease.
"Jokowi's decision to speak out shows he's starting to feel uneasy. He's trying to justify the policies currently under scrutiny by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK)," Rocky said on his YouTube account.
According to Rocky, Jokowi's comments weren't simply a spontaneous reaction to public criticism. He saw signs of concern from the former president that the KPK investigation could lead directly to him. "That's a sign that he's anticipating something that could endanger him," he said.
Rocky believes the root of the problem with the high-speed rail project lies not in its social objectives, but rather in alleged corrupt planning.
He cited indications of markups and cashback practices as the main issues. "The problem isn't profit or loss, but losses resulting from misplanning and manipulation, which are starting to be linked to allegations of corruption," he explained.
He also highlighted the stance of Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, who from the outset rejected the use of the State Budget (APBN) to cover the project's debt. However, in recent statements, Purbaya has appeared to soften his stance.
"He confirmed a little of Jokowi's argument about the social aspects of this project. But if he's only slightly right, then there's a lot wrong," Rocky said.
Rocky observes that both Jokowi and Purbaya are now in an apologetic position. "Both are trying to defend themselves. Jokowi on social grounds, Purbaya on technical grounds. But the public's demand for legal clarity will not stop," he said.
According to him, if the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) were serious, this case could develop more quickly than other issues that have plagued Jokowi, such as the alleged fake diploma. "The public is waiting, because the scale of the alleged corruption could be astonishing," Rocky said.
He also touched on President Prabowo Subianto's position as the current head of government. Rocky believes the public is waiting for a signal from Prabowo to clarify the direction of law enforcement. "If Prabowo gives the green light, the KPK will proceed. But if not, this case could be pushed back to the background," he said.
At the end of the conversation, Rocky emphasized the importance of consistency. He quipped that Purbaya shouldn't turn into a "crybaby cowboy" after his previous record of vehemently opposing project funding through the state budget.
"The public hopes that Purbaya will remain a cowboy of common sense, not a cowboy who loses his energy mid-ride," he said.
The Whoosh case now presents a new test for the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) and the government. For Rocky, more important than simply finding the culprit is ensuring that public policy no longer becomes a breeding ground for compromise between politics and business.
"If social projects are carried out corruptly, it's not just the state's money that's lost, but also the common sense of this republic," he concluded. (san)