Indonesian President's Son faces scrutiny over Private Jet use by Anti-graft Agency

On September 17, Kaesang Pangarep, the youngest son of Indonesian President Joko Widodo, visited the anti-corruption agency to address concerns about his recent use of a private jet. After the meeting, Kaesang denied any wrongdoing, explaining that he had simply "hitched a ride" on a friend's private jet. He emphasized that he voluntarily met with the investigators rather than being summoned.

Public backlash and official review

Kaesang’s luxurious lifestyle, highlighted by his wife’s social media posts, has recently sparked controversy in Indonesia. The public's outrage intensified after news broke of Kaesang and his wife traveling to the U.S. on a private jet last month. This occurred shortly after nationwide protests against a proposed law that would have allowed Kaesang to run in regional elections. The parliament later withdrew the proposal in response to the protests.

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President Widodo, often referred to as Jokowi, is facing criticism for perceived efforts to build a political dynasty before his term ends next month. His eldest son, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, was elected as vice president and will be inaugurated on October 20.

Pahala Nainggolan, a top official from the anti-corruption agency, stated that the agency will decide within the next week whether Kaesang violated any regulations. If found guilty of improperly receiving gifts as a state official’s son, Kaesang would be required to repay the cost of the private jet trip. Initially, Kaesang had planned to fly to the U.S. on a commercial flight but chose to board the private jet of a friend traveling to the same destination instead, according to his spokesperson, Francine Widjojo.