Lodewyk Pusung's pre-trial motion rejected in BGN corruption case

The South Jakarta District Court has rejected a pre-trial motion filed by Lodewyk Pusung, the former Deputy Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN). Pusung is a suspect in a corruption case involving the management of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program.

Judge Sulistyo Muhammad Dwi Putro ruled that the legal actions taken by the Attorney General's Office, including the designation of Pusung as a suspect and subsequent seizures, were lawful. The court noted that Pusung had previously attempted similar pre-trial motions in other jurisdictions, which were either inadmissible or lacked jurisdiction. The judge further stated that the arguments presented by the defense touched upon the substance of the case, which must be examined in a Corruption Court rather than through pre-trial proceedings.

Separately, Sudaryono, the Head of the National Nutrition Agency, addressed public criticism regarding the MBG program. He stated that while there is significant debate on social media involving various stakeholders, the situation on the ground does not reflect widespread issues. Sudaryono emphasized a commitment to discipline, noting that nearly 2,000 problematic kitchens have been closed and sanctions are being prepared for officials linked to food poisoning incidents.