Head of Nusantara

On March 10, President Joko Widodo appointed Bambang Susantono and Dhony Rahajoe as the first-ever Head of Authority and Deputy Head of Authority of the new capital city (IKN) ‘Nusantara’. Despite the government’s explanation, questions were raised regarding the government’s decision in choosing M. Susantono and M. Rahajoe. Several observers also argued that both M. Susantono and M. Rajahoe are arguably ‘new names’ and had never been mentioned by the Administration before, unlike other candidates, such as Ridwan Kamil or Tri Rismaharini.

Hence, what is the real motive behind the appointment? Could the selected officials address the issues that have been raised during the IKN planning and assessment process?