Palembang, KOTABARI.COM – In a continuation of the trial concerning the alleged corruption of KONI South Sumatra’s grant funds, former South Sumatra Governor Herman Deru admitted to considerable forgetfulness and lack of knowledge while testifying for the defendant, Hendri Zainuddin. The court session, held today, focused on the alleged embezzlement of Rp 37.5 billion.
During the hearing, Deru’s responses were predominantly characterized by claims of forgetfulness or lack of knowledge when questioned by the defendant’s legal counsel, the Public Prosecutor, and the Panel of Judges. One critical question raised by Hendri Zainuddin’s attorney, Gede Pasek Suardika SH, concerned the disbursement process of the Rp 37.5 billion grant, which was executed in October 2021 after the PON event, despite the Governor’s decree being signed in November 2021.
“Why was the budget disbursement carried out in October 2021, after the PON, while the Governor’s decree was signed in November 2021?” asked Gede Pasek Suardika.
In response, Deru claimed he did not remember and stated that accountability for the funds lay with the recipients. “I don’t know, counsel. Regarding the grant amount, I don’t recall, but the recipients are still responsible,” Deru said.
When questioned about the amount allocated for KONI South Sumatra’s participation in the PON and Porprov events, Deru again admitted to not remembering. “I truly don’t remember,” he responded. He also confessed to forgetting details about the release of the South Sumatra contingent during the PON. “I know, but I forgot the specifics due to the numerous ceremonial events,” he said.
The Panel of Judges also questioned Deru about the KONI grant funds, to which Deru once more responded with a lack of specific recollection. “You were the Governor at the time and should have provided a solution for the PON. Are you aware that the Rp 37 billion grant was only disbursed after the PON?” asked the Panel. Deru replied, “I specifically forgot, Your Honor.”
Following Deru’s testimony, the court session was adjourned and will resume on Tuesday, July 30, 2024.