Hendropriyono Denies Rumors of Jokowi Lobbying for the Position of Commander-in-Chief of the Indonesian National Armed Forces for His Son-in-Law

Kapanlagi.com - Former Head of the National Intelligence Agency Abdullah Mahmud Hendropriyono is said to have lobbied President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) regarding the position of Commander of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI). Hendropriyono is said to have lobbied for the position to be given to TNI General Andika Perkasa. Andika is Hendropriyono's son-in-law who serves as the Chief of Staff of the Army.

The issue arose during a meeting between Hendropriyono, his wife, and President Jokowi at the State Palace. Hendropriyono denied the allegations. He asserted that he has never asked anyone for a position, even for himself.

"I have never discussed and never talked about such a matter, I have never been so demeaning as to 'beg' for a position. Not for my son-in-law, child, let alone for myself. Never," said Hendro in a written statement today, Monday (14/6/2021).

1. Only Silaturahmi

Hendropriyono explained that the meeting that took place on Friday, May 7, 2021, was related to his birthday celebration. On that day, he only wanted to have a friendly visit with Jokowi.

"The meeting on May 7, 2021, was related to my 76th birthday. As the President, it is impossible for him to come to my house. Visiting each other as two friends is a common thing, because after becoming President, Pak Jokowi hasn't changed at all from when he was an ordinary citizen," said Hendropriyono.

2. Doubts About the Credibility of Three Retired Military Personnel

In the news, media sources quoted three retired military personnel who knew about the meeting between Hendropriyono and Jokowi. However, once again, the former Commander of the Jakarta Military Regional Command denied the allegations.

"They said it was from 3 retired military personnel. What is their credibility? Why didn't they cross-check with Pak Jokowi or the Palace, which is clearly credible regarding my meeting. There is no need to fabricate news and fabricate sources," said Hendropriyono.

The news also included a statement from the Palace regarding the meeting. The news source claimed to have tried to contact Hendropriyono through both his private number and his son, Diaz Hendropriyono. However, there was no response from both methods.

(kpl/ums)