Prabumulih Mayor Apologizes for Principal’s Removal | Admission of Wrongdoing

Indonesian mayor Apologizes for Improper Removal of School Principal After Son’s Reprimand

A Prabumulih mayor publicly apologized for the unlawful removal of a school principal following an incident involving the mayor’s son being disciplined for driving a car to school. The case has sparked public debate about abuse of power and the importance of upholding educational standards.

Jakarta – Mayor Arlan of Prabumulih issued a formal apology to Roni Ardiansyah, the former principal of SMPN 1, acknowledging that his removal from the position did not adhere to established regulations. The apology came after an examination by the Ministry of Home Affairs on Thursday,September 18,2025.

“First of all, I would like to apologize to all Indonesian people, and especially the Prabumulih community, for my mistake in this incident,” Arlan stated. He further expressed remorse and pledged to learn from the experience, admitting his actions were driven by a loss of control. “This makes a wisdom for me and a study for me. Without this incident, I realise I am unable to control myself. With this incident, I take one wisdom,” he explained. “I apologize to Mr. Roni, the Principal of SMP Negeri 1, for my mistakes, wich I have realized.”

The controversy began when Roni and a school security officer reprimanded the mayor’s son for driving a car to school. The student afterward reported the incident to his parents, leading to the immediate replacement of both the principal and the security guard.

the swift action drew criticism, prompting an investigation into the mayor’s conduct. A senior official from the City Education Office, A Darmadi, confirmed that the changes in school leadership were “a direct request from the Mayor.”

Did you know? – Indonesia’s Ministry of Home affairs has the authority to investigate and review actions taken by regional leaders, including mayors, to ensure compliance with regulations.

Following the mayor’s apology, Roni Ardiansyah accepted the gesture, stating the matter was resolved. “From yesterday, the Mayor of Prabumulih, with all his humility, had been in touch with my house, again embracing me. And thank God, I also said that the problem that had occurred, God willing, had been resolved,” Roni said. He has since been reinstated to his position as Principal of SMPN 1 Prabumulih, returning on September 17th. “With a sense of emotion and pride too,on the specified day to coincide with September 17,I have been returned,” he noted.

The incident highlights the potential for conflicts of interest when public officials’ families are involved in school discipline. The case has also prompted calls for greater clarity and accountability in local government.The anti-corruption agency, KPK, has indicated it will review the mayor’s financial disclosures considering the viral case.

Pro tip: – When faced with potential conflicts of interest, public officials should recuse themselves from decisions that could benefit thier families or create an appearance of impropriety.

. This case serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of upholding ethical standards and respecting the independence of educational institutions.

Reader question: – How can communities ensure that schools remain self-reliant from undue political influence? What role should parents play in advocating for ethical conduct?

Here’s a breakdown answering the “Why, who, What, and How” questions:

What: Mayor Arlan of Prabumulih improperly removed Roni Ardiansyah, the principal of SMPN 1, after the principal disciplined the mayor’s son for driving a car to school.

Who: The key individuals involved are Mayor Arlan of Prabumulih, Roni Ardiansyah (the principal), the mayor’s son (the student), and A Darmadi (a City Education Office official). The Ministry of Home Affairs and the KPK (anti-corruption agency) are also involved.