Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has publicly condemned the actions of Aceh Selatan Regent Mirwan MS,demanding a review of his position after reports surfaced he left his flood-stricken region to travel to Mecca for Umrah. The incident has ignited a national debate about accountability and leadership during times of disaster, raising questions about prioritizing public service over personal religious observance. Mirwan’s departure occurred despite a rejection of his travel request by the Aceh Governor and while residents remained displaced, prompting swift action from both the central goverment and his own political party. The Gerindra Party has since expelled Mirwan as a member, underscoring the seriousness with which the matter is being treated.
Jakarta, CNN Indonesia —
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has called for the removal of Aceh Selatan Regent Mirwan MS, after reports surfaced that the official traveled to Mecca for the Umrah pilgrimage while his region was grappling with the aftermath of severe flooding and landslides.
During a disaster response meeting held Sunday, December 7, in Aceh Besar, Prabowo requested that Interior Minister Tito Karnavian initiate proceedings to dismiss Mirwan from his post.
“If someone wants to run, let them run. The Interior Minister can process their removal, if that’s possible,” Prabowo said, adding a stern rebuke. “If this were the military, it would be considered desertion – abandoning your troops in a time of danger. I won’t ask what party they belong to, that’s just unacceptable.”
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The rebuke comes after Mirwan MS left the disaster-stricken region to perform the religious pilgrimage. The incident has sparked public outcry and raised questions about leadership during times of crisis.
Inspectors from the Interior Ministry have already rescheduled an examination of Mirwan’s conduct, according to reports.
Prabowo also took the opportunity to express gratitude to regional leaders who have remained dedicated to rescue and recovery efforts.
“Thank you to the regents who continue to fight for the people. You were elected to face difficulties,” he stated.
Prabowo acknowledged the dire conditions on the ground, reporting widespread damage to agricultural land and the urgent need for housing reconstruction.
“I’ve received reports that the situation is quite concerning. Many rice fields have been damaged, and we need to help rebuild homes,” he said.
The controversy surrounding Regent Mirwan MS began after he embarked on the Umrah pilgrimage on December 2, bringing his family along, while residents of Trumon were still displaced and living in evacuation tents. He had previously issued a letter on November 27 stating his inability to manage the emergency response to the floods and landslides.
Aceh Governor Muzakir Manaf, also known as Mualem, stated that he had rejected Mirwan’s request to travel for Umrah, citing the ongoing disaster.
“The Governor has issued a written response denying the request,” said Muhammad MTA, a spokesperson for the Aceh government, on Friday, December 5.
Mualem emphasized that Aceh Selatan was among the hardest-hit areas and that the regent had already declared a state of emergency. This incident underscores the importance of leadership presence during natural disasters.
The Gerindra Party has officially expelled Mirwan as a member following his decision to travel with his family while his constituents faced hardship.
“His attitude and leadership are deeply regrettable, and therefore the Gerindra DPP has decided to dismiss him as Chairman of the Gerindra Aceh Selatan Regional Leadership Council,” said Sugiono, the Secretary-General of the Gerindra Party, on Friday, December 5.
(tim/dal)
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