Bireuen – detikperistiwa.co.id
The public in Bireuen Regency is being reminded not to be consumed by fanaticism regarding the personal wealth of regional leaders. Arizal Mahdi, Chairman of Relawan Peduli Rakyat Lintas Batas, emphasised that citizens must remain rational and focus on a leader’s integrity and actual performance, rather than a glamourous public image.
“Do not be dazzled by wealth, luxury cars, or extravagant celebrations. No matter how wealthy a regent may be, personal funds are not a tool for regional development,” Arizal stated firmly.
He explained that all regional development must go through official state budgeting mechanisms, with transparent accountability and strict adherence to legal frameworks. Relying on personal wealth for public affairs risks fostering inequality, dependency, and potential abuse of power.
A Stark Reality: Poverty Remains High
According to the Aceh Provincial Office of Statistics (BPS), the number of people living in poverty in Bireuen Regency reached 59.93 thousand in 2024. This figure reflects the continuing struggles of many residents who need genuine government action and policy, not displays of symbolic wealth.
“With such a high poverty rate, our concern should not be the size of a leader’s private fortune, but how seriously they work to reduce poverty and establish social justice,” Arizal stressed.
The Cattle Aid Controversy: A Sign of Power Misuse
In response to reports about alleged requests for cattle donations from sub-district heads and department leaders to fund the regent’s child’s wedding, Arizal Mahdi described such actions — if proven true — as a serious misuse of authority.
“State facilities and public office must serve the people, not be exploited for personal or family purposes. Practices like these are against the spirit of bureaucratic reform and the principles of justice,” he said.
He also reminded that civil servants are accountable to the state and the people — not to individuals or political dynasties. Excessive obedience to personal interests undermines the neutrality and professionalism of the bureaucracy.
Raising Public Awareness
Relawan Peduli Rakyat Lintas Batas calls on the people of Bireuen to be more critical and proactive in monitoring governance. An ideal leader is not one who is materially wealthy, but one who works earnestly to protect and uplift the marginalised.
“We want Bireuen to progress not because its leader is rich, but because they are clean, honest, and fair. Let us not be misled by the spectacle of wealth,” Arizal concluded.
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