TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Indonesia Corruption Watch researcher Ade Irawan asked the House of Representatives (DPR) to explain several things to the public if it wanted to revive DPR new building development project as the public’s perspective could be influenced by DPR’s explanation.

“First, from the aspect of justice. This building construction can cause the DPR to be considered selfish and insensitive to the public interest,” Ade told Tempo on Sunday.

He opined that the public sees the current DPR building is still in a good condition and representative as the workplace of DPR members. The current condition is also quite sensitive as the DPR is experiencing internal conflicts such as the feud between Prabowo and Jokowi Coalition. The interest in the new building proposed by DPR household agency is still being questioned.

The DPR is advised to give explanations to the public about the urgency in developing a new building. If the building is built to accelerate the performance of DPR members in fighting for the people’s aspirations, then the public can accept it. “However, if it is requested by parties that want the project, then it’s a problem,” he said.

He reminded on the new building issue that heated in 2010. The ICW also said the suggestion given by DPR members is far more expensive than the proposal, so there might be price markups. There are also parties that allegedly ask to be part of the project. “That’s why, the DPR must be more transparent in the budget and the tender process. If they clear, the public will understand,” he said.

The ICW was not be able to say that the planned new building is a good thing because there are still corruption indications. This project was previously proposed in 2010 before being scrapped on May 23, 2011 due to pressure from many parties.

URSULA FLORENE SONIA