Former Corruption Convict Idrus Marham Now Serves as Deputy Chairman of Golkar Party

Kapanlagi.com - Idrus Marham, a political figure from South Sulawesi and a central figure in the Golkar Party, is once again capturing public attention. This time, he has been appointed as the Deputy Chairman of Public Policy Function 2.

However, this announcement is not without controversy, triggering various reactions in society, especially considering his colorful background due to his involvement in the corruption scandal of the Riau-1 coal-fired power plant project.

Throughout his illustrious career, Idrus has held various strategic positions, including serving as Minister of Social Affairs. However, all of that is overshadowed by the legal issues that now haunt his name.

Now, with his latest appointment, the public is once again questioning whether Idrus will be able to carry out this mandate well, or will the shadows of his past continue to loom over his steps?

1. Early Life and Education of Idrus Marham

Idrus Marham, who was born in Patampanua, Pinrang, South Sulawesi on August 14, 1962, showed an impressive enthusiasm for learning from an early age.

After completing his education at SMA Negeri Pare-Pare, he continued his academic journey at the Faculty of Sharia at IAIN Alauddin, Makassar, before earning a master's degree at IAIN Walisongo, Semarang.

However, his love for knowledge never faded; in 2009, he successfully obtained a PhD in Political Science from Gadjah Mada University with cum laude honors, thanks to his in-depth dissertation on the development of democracy in the homeland.

2. Beginning of Political Career

Idrus Marham's political career soared when he was elected as a member of the MPR RI in the 1997 elections, marking the beginning of his brilliant journey on the national political stage.

Not satisfied with just that, he continued his illustrious career by serving as a member of the House of Representatives for three consecutive terms from 1999 to 2014.

In addition, Idrus was also actively involved in youth organizations, serving as the Chairman of the National Committee of Indonesian Youth (KNPI) from 2002-2005 and attaining the position of Vice President of the World Assembly of Youth in 2005, demonstrating his unwavering dedication to the younger generation and national development.

3. Career in Golkar Party and Position as Minister of Social Affairs

Idrus Marham, a figure inseparable from the Golkar Party, began his political journey with a bold step when he resigned from the Indonesian House of Representatives in 2011 to take the position of Secretary General of the party.

With various clever strategies, he managed to carve out a significant influence within Golkar. The peak of his career came in January 2018 when he was trusted to serve as Minister of Social Affairs in President Joko Widodo's Working Cabinet. However, unfortunately, his glory days in the ministry came to a swift end due to a scandal that befell him.

4. Riau-1 Power Plant Corruption Case

Idrus Marham caught the public's attention when the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) named him a suspect in the corruption scandal of the Riau-1 power plant project in August 2018. He was accused of receiving a bribe of USD 1.5 million from businessman Johannes Kotjo, who was involved in the controversial project.

In a trial held in 2019, Idrus was sentenced to three years in prison, but the sentence was increased to five years during the appeal process. Nevertheless, the Supreme Court granted a sentence reduction, making Idrus's legal journey even more interesting to follow.

5. The Other Side

Although his name is often involved in controversy, Idrus Marham continues to shine as a figure who prioritizes education. Before venturing into the political ocean, he dedicated himself as a lecturer at several prestigious universities, including the Islamic University of Attahiriyah and the 17 August 1945 University in Jakarta, where his dedication earned him the award for Best Lecturer.

In his personal life, Idrus made a sacred vow with Ridho Ekasari in 2009, a former presenter of Metro TV known for her religious programs. Their grand wedding took place at the Golden Dome Mosque in Depok, witnessed by two prominent national figures, President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and Vice President Jusuf Kalla, adding a special atmosphere to the joyous occasion.

6. What is Idrus Marham's educational background?

Idrus carved out an impressive achievement in the academic world by pursuing higher education at IAIN Alauddin Makassar and IAIN Walisongo. Not stopping there, he continued his journey to earn a doctorate in Political Science from Gadjah Mada University, demonstrating his extraordinary dedication and commitment to knowledge.

7. Why is Idrus Marham embroiled in the Riau-1 PLTU corruption case?

Idrus is entangled in a corruption scandal that has shaken the business world, after it was revealed that he allegedly received bribes amounting to USD 1.5 million related to a power plant project in 2018.

This case exposes the dark side of corrupt practices that harm many parties, and now his name is in the public spotlight.

8. What is Idrus Marham's role in the Golkar Party?

Idrus, a figure who has long made his mark in the Golkar Party, is not just an ordinary member.

With substantial experience as Secretary General in the past, he now holds the position of Deputy Chairman, demonstrating his unwavering dedication to guiding the party towards a brighter future.

9. What are Idrus Marham's academic contributions?

Before stepping into the glittering world of politics, Idrus had achieved remarkable accomplishments in the academic realm, where he was recognized as the Best Lecturer at the Islamic University of Attahiriyah.

His dedication to educating and mentoring the younger generation shows that his love for knowledge is as great as his passion for contributing to social change.

(kpl/rmt)