Jamaah, Pati, Central Java – The regent of Pati, Sudewo, has revoked a 250 percent increase in property taxes following mounting public protests and pledged to refund residents who had already paid the higher rate.
The announcement was delivered on Friday at the Pati Regency Hall, where Sudewo said the property tax rate would be restored to 2024 levels.
"I am cancelling the property tax increase to maintain public order, ensure a conducive environment, and support economic activity and development in Pati Regency," Sudewo said.
The rollback came after community groups united under the banner of Aliansi Masyarakat Pati Bersatu (United Pati People's Alliance) and threatened mass demonstrations on August 13.
Organizers said the dispute was about more than just taxes, accusing the regent of breaking campaign promises and challenging citizens to protest.
"This isn't just about the tax. The regent broke his campaign pledge. He hasn't even been in office for a year and has already raised taxes, then dared the people to demonstrate. That's why residents are angry," said protest coordinator Teguh Istianto.
Fundraising posts for the planned protest continued to receive donations of bottled water and other supplies from residents even after the policy reversal.
Sudewo, 56, was sworn in on February 20 alongside other newly elected mayors and regents across Indonesia. A member of the Great Indonesia Movement Party (Gerindra), he previously served two terms in the House of Representatives before winning the regency election.