Prabowo Subianto Appoints New Leadership to Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission

Indonesia’s anti-corruption efforts are facing renewed scrutiny following a decline in its Corruption Perception Index (CPI) score. President Prabowo Subianto has responded by installing new leadership at the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK), raising questions about whether this represents a genuine effort to combat corruption or merely a superficial change.

New KPK Leadership Announced

On February 18, 2026, President Prabowo Subianto officially appointed three deputies to lead the KPK:

• Aminuddin (Prevention): Will focus on preventative measures, monitoring government spending to curb bribery.
• Brig. Gen. Asep Guntur Rahayu (Enforcement): Assumes responsibility for investigations, arrests, and asset seizures.
• Ely Kusumastuti (Coordination): Will serve as a liaison between the KPK and other legal agencies to streamline case management.

“Start Your Engines”: A Call for Action

KPK Chairman Setyo Budiyanto urged the new team to take immediate action, using the metaphor “Start your engines.” He emphasized the need to move beyond planning and address the country’s corruption issues decisively. Budiyanto also called for an end to internal divisions within the KPK, stating that “departmental egos” hinder progress. He acknowledged that the agency has been “paralyzed” and requires dynamic leadership to function effectively.

CPI Score of 34: A Critical Benchmark

The new KPK leaders have been tasked with improving Indonesia’s CPI score, which currently stands at 34. This score is viewed as a key indicator of the country’s integrity and is closely watched by both the Indonesian public and international observers.

Implications for Indonesia’s Reputation

A CPI score of 34 signals a potential systemic resurgence of corruption, raising concerns for global investors and the Indonesian public. If the new KPK leadership fails to deliver tangible results – specifically, high-profile arrests of individuals within the political and business elite – Indonesia’s reputation as a stable and attractive investment destination could suffer further damage. The effectiveness of this new team will be crucial in determining whether Indonesia can regain its footing in the fight against corruption.

Who is Prabowo Subianto?

Prabowo Subianto Djojohadikusumo is the current President of Indonesia, having assumed office on October 20, 2024. Prior to his presidency, he served as the Minister of Defense from October 23, 2019, to October 20, 2024, and held various military positions, including Commander of Kostrad and Commandant General of Kopassus [1].