Jokowi says he’s been bugged since December

JAKARTA. Governor Joko “Jokowi” Widodo unveiled on Thursday that he had been bugged since at least December last year.

“I’ve known since December but I didn’t want to make a fuss out of it. I was surprised, but no hard feelings. My colleagues were apparently very angry,” he said in Jakarta.

Earlier in the day, Indonesia Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P) secretary general Tjahjo Kumolo said his party staff had found three bugging devices installed in Jokowi’s official residence in Menteng, Central Jakarta.

Jokowi said the devices were found in his bedroom, guest room and dining room, where he usually held meetings.

“What was there to eavesdrop on anyway? At home I talk about meals, kids and stuff like that with my wife. What was so interesting about my meetings with agency heads? I bet [those listening in] were frustrated because nothing interesting was said,” he added. “I don’t want to think too much about this issue.”

When asked whether he suspected anyone or any specific party, he said: “I have no idea. I don’t want to think about it.”

Jokowi is likely considered a big threat to other political parties because his popularity has been highlighted by a number of presidential candidate surveys since last year. (Sita W Dewi)