East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa has been reported to the police for allegedly breaching COVID-19 protocols at her birthday party last week.

The party was held on Wednesday evening at the former social affairs minister's official residence in the province's capital of Surabaya. Footage that have circulated since seem to show at least dozens in attendance and with minimal mask-wearing and social distancing throughout.

Several civilian groups have filed official complaints with the police over the party, with one arguing that government officials should not be afforded the privilege to hold massive social gatherings during the pandemic.

"The law applies to all. If an official violates, then the punishment should be heavier. Police must investigate this thoroughly," a complainant named Muhammad Soleh said.

Muhammad also cited the case of hardline cleric Rizieq Shihab, who is now on trial for incitement to hold social gatherings in his honor despite the pandemic, as a reference point on how Khofifah's birthday party should be viewed by law enforcement.

In addition, one civilian group has filed a complaint against Khofifah and her subordinates, including Vice Governor Emil Dardak, for allegedly misusing the province's budget on the party.

The East Java Police says it will look into the complaints.

East Java Regional Secretary Heru Tjahjono previously denied that Khofifah had anything to do with the planning of the party, saying that it was initiated by her employees as a token of their appreciation for her.

"I swear, by Allah, this wasn't Governor Khofifah's initiative," Heru told reporters on Friday.

Heru added the viral footage of the party did not accurately depict the event, which he said was attended by some 50 people in a building that has a capacity to hold 2,000. Heru also claimed that all in attendance were swab tested before the party.

Source: https://coconuts.co/jakarta/news/east-java-governor-reported-to-police-over-birthday-party