DIGIVESTASI - PDIP Responds to Report Against Rieke Diah Pitaloka to MKD Over Opposition to VAT Hike, PDIP DPP Chairman Deddy Yevry Sitorus responded to the report filed against PDIP faction DPR member Rieke Diah Pitaloka to the House Ethics Council (MKD). Rieke was reported for allegedly provoking opposition to the Value-Added Tax (VAT) increase to 12%. Deddy emphasized that being critical is an integral part of a legislator's oversight function.

“MKD’s actions risk suppressing the critical capabilities of DPR members and could erode public trust in the legislative body. The DPR serves as an instrument for government checks and balances, and its oversight function must be upheld,” Deddy stated on Monday (30/12/2024).

Deddy argued that it would be peculiar if legislators were prohibited from criticizing government policies, as their duty is to represent the people's aspirations. He also pointed out that legislators who remain silent, both in sessions and public discourse, should be questioned.

“The MKD should examine passive DPR members who neither speak in parliamentary sessions nor communicate with the public. The word ‘parliament’ comes from ‘parle,’ meaning to speak. If they stay silent, why should citizens pay their salaries through the state budget?” he added.

Criticism of the MKD’s Role

Deddy also urged the MKD to prioritize protecting the freedom of DPR members to express their opinions. He warned that the council should not be used as a tool to silence critical voices.

“The MKD should safeguard legislators' rights to voice their opinions, not serve as an instrument to suppress them. If all critical stances are turned into cases via public complaints, the DPR risks becoming a mere rubber stamp for power. This clearly contradicts the MKD’s founding principles,” Deddy asserted.

Rieke Questions Summons During Recess

Rieke Diah Pitaloka addressed her summons by the MKD, highlighting that the letter was sent during the DPR’s recess period.

“I request clarification: was the MKD letter dated December 27, 2024, truly issued by MKD leadership? And was the procedure to notify via a WhatsApp message to MKD staff appropriate?” Rieke stated in her release.

She declared her inability to attend the summons, citing her ongoing state duties. Additionally, she requested an explanation regarding the verification process for witness statements as per applicable rules.

“If the letter indeed pertains to an MKD session, I ask for information about the witness verification results, including their identity, domicile, and knowledge of the matter under review,” she said.

Background of the Report Against Rieke

The MKD received a complaint against Rieke Diah Pitaloka for her critical remarks during a DPR plenary session, where she requested a delay in raising VAT to 12%. The report was filed on December 27, 2024, during the DPR recess, with the summons postponed to accommodate the schedule.

The case has drawn public attention regarding the role and freedom of legislators in performing their oversight functions and voicing criticism of government policies.

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