"The (rumor about the) promise is not true. The president did not promise it to regional officials, especially regarding the recruitment of civil servants, which was then linked to the 2024 elections," he noted on Tuesday.
He explained that civil servants' appointments were regulated by the Ministry of State Administrative and Bureaucratic Reforms to improve services to the community.
"While on January 5, President Jokowi announced to open recruitment for 2.3 million ASN. The process will be transparent," he stressed.
During his working visit to the regions, the head of state never promised to appoint civil servants related to the 2024 presidential election. Dwipayana clarified that Jokowi's working visit activities in the regions were held in an open manner and could be monitored by the media.
"His statements to the public, whether at the time of handing over social assistance, handing over certificates, or meetings, were always covered by the media," he pointed out.
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On the other hand, Dwipayana stated that the concept of neutrality for ASN, Indonesian Defense Forces (TNI), and National Police (Polri) has also been regulated in the law along with its administrative sanctions, warnings, and criminal penalties.
"Moreover, the president has always emphasized the neutrality of ASN, TNI, and Polri several times," Dwipayana remarked.
He said that the government will carry out ASN recruitment in 2024 due to budget availability and manpower required this year, especially for education and health personnel.
Speaking in connection with the viral statement by the regional secretary of Takalar District, South Sulawesi, that Jokowi promised to appoint ASN if Prabowo-Gibran won, Dwipayana revealed that this matter was currently being investigated by the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Election Supervisory Agency (Bawaslu).
"It is not true. There was no promise. The regional Bawaslu has handled this matter. The Home Affairs Ministry has also deployed its personnel for this issue," he added.
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Translator: Rangga Pandu/Indra Arief, Resinta S
Editor: Yuni Arisandy Sinaga
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