Sudewo Rejects Regent Withdrawal – East Java Update
Pati Regent Sudewo Faces Public Outcry, Refuses too resign Amidst Tax Hike Controversy
Pati, Indonesia – Regent Sudewo of Pati Regency finds himself at the center of a growing storm of public discontent, triggered by a controversial policy that drastically increased property taxes (PBB-P2) by approximately 250%. Despite widespread protests and calls for his resignation, Sudewo remains steadfast in his refusal to step down, citing his mandate from the people.
The controversy began when Sudewo implemented the PBB-P2 tariff adjustment, a move he defended as necessary due to a 14-year period without increases. Though, the sudden and substantial hike sparked immediate backlash from Pati residents.
on August 13, 2025, Pati was rocked by a large-scale exhibition, with citizens demanding Sudewo’s resignation. The Pati United community alliance even established a fundraising post near Pati Square on August 5th, signaling the depth of public opposition.Adding fuel to the fire, a video surfaced on social media, showing Sudewo seemingly challenging protestors to demonstrate. In the video, posted by the TikTok account @Ekokuswanto09, Sudewo declared he wouldn’t be intimidated by demonstrations, even if they involved tens of thousands of people, asserting his decisions were in the best interest of Pati Regency.
Following the August 13th demonstration, Sudewo addressed the calls for his resignation, stating firmly that he would not resign because he was “chosen by the people constitutionally and democratically.” He emphasized that any such demands must follow established legal mechanisms.the Pati United community alliance has taken their concerns a step further, sending a letter to the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) on august 25th, urging them to investigate Sudewo. Teguh Istiyanto,a coordinator for the alliance,described the action as a demonstration of solidarity among Pati residents.
Most recently, on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, Sudewo was questioned by the KPK in South Jakarta. Following the examination, he reiterated his commitment to serving Pati Regency, stating, “I will be Istikamah, will be a mandate to develop Pati Regency as well