Calls are increasing for law enforcement to act on allegations involving the former minister.

Key Points

• Parliament members want investigation into an online gambling case tied to an ex-minister.
• Claims involve shares of protection funds distributed to gambling platforms.
• The ex-minister rejects the allegations, calling them false and damaging to reputation.

The Indonesian House of Representatives has repeated demands for decisive action in the online gambling case implicating ex-communications minister Budi Arie Setiadi. According to Tempo, Commission III members stated that testimony and charge papers link the ex-minister to gambling site protection under the Communication and Information Ministry. Legislators said that if evidence is present, legal responsibility must follow.

Cabinet Reshuffle Sparks Corruption Allegations Against Former Minister

The issue emerged after President Prabowo Subianto’s cabinet reshuffle this month that removed Budi Arie from office. Witnesses told the court he knew of illegal arrangements to protect gambling sites and allegedly received 50% of profits from unblocked platforms. Budi Arie denied all accusations, saying they are false stories aimed at harming his integrity. He explained the figures in the indictment reflected suspect discussions and insisted he gained nothing. He also claimed he acted against online gambling websites during his ministerial term.

Gambling in Indonesia remains prohibited, with online sites often based overseas but targeting local players. The debate has increased pressure on President Prabowo’s government, as lawmakers demand reviews of unresolved issues, including the 2023 BTS 4G corruption scandal inside the ministry. Supporters argue that strengthening the Corruption Eradication Commission resources will be important to tackle these problems. Parliament members stressed that law enforcement must process the cases transparently, ensuring both gambling and corruption matters are handled to protect public trust.