Agus Martowardojo, the New Governor of Bank Indonesia

Muhammad Agus Yozami, Mahinda Arkyasa

Commission XI (Commission) of the House of Representatives has finally elected Agus Martowardojo as the new Governor of Bank Indonesia for the 2013-2018 period. Out of 54 members of the Commission, 46 voted in favor of Agus, 7 voted against him, and 1 member abstained.

Emir Moeis, Chairman of the Commission, admitted that Agus’ appointment was not an entirely smooth process because every faction of the Commission had different opinions on his nomination. Some even requested that the appointment be postponed to April 2013.

“Nevertheless, with the voting results, Agus is officially the new BI Governor,” Emir confirmed after the voting.

The Chairman also stated that the Commission has made 14 reservations regarding Agus’ appointment, including his willingness to resign if he is involved in a legal case. This reservation was made in relation to Agus’ alleged involvement in the Hambalang corruption case.

“We want to remind Agus about his promise to resign if his involvement in the Hambalang corruption case is proven,” Emir informed.

Harry Azhar Azis, Deputy Chairman of the Commission, expressed that he has strong concerns regarding Agus’ alleged involvement in the Hambalang corruption case.

He concluded that if Agus is indeed involved in the case, then his appointment as the new BI Governor should be treated with caution.

(jt)