Indonesia Minister Gus Irfan faces nepotism allegations

Mochamad Irfan Yusuf, the Indonesian Minister of Hajj and Umrah, is facing public scrutiny following allegations that he appointed his two sons, Barbarossa Muhammad Farros and Gibran Muhammad Fawwaz, as expert staff (Tenaga Ahli) within his ministry.

The names of the two individuals appeared in a document titled Ministerial Decree Number 3 of 2026 regarding the Appointment of Expert Staff for the Minister of Hajj and Umrah. This has led to criticism from political observers, including Saiful Mujani, who raised concerns regarding professionalism, transparency, and potential conflicts of interest.

In response to the controversy, Gus Irfan previously explained that during the early stages of establishing the Hajj Organizing Agency (BP Haji) in late 2024, the institution lacked formal offices, organizational structures, and sufficient support staff. He noted that he had to rely on close associates to begin operations during that transitional period.