Indonesian DPR Member Accused of Insulting Journalists; Faces Disciplinary Complaint

Deddy Sitorus, a member of Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) from the PDI Perjuangan party representing North Kalimantan, has faced criticism over remarks made during a commission hearing on 30 July 2026. During a working meeting of Commission II with the Ministry of Home Affairs, Sitorus made a statement containing the phrase "kayak sirkus" (like a circus) while journalists were present to cover the session.

The Parliamentary Press Coordinator (KWP) responded by threatening to file a complaint with the House Ethics Council (MKD) if Sitorus did not issue a public apology within 24 hours. Wakil Ketua Bidang Administrasi KWP Erwin Syahputra stated that copies of the report would also be sent to the PDI Perjuangan faction and party leadership. The Indonesian Journalists Association (PWI) also issued a statement expressing concern, with PWI official Anrico Pasaribu stating that regardless of context, such language is inappropriate for a public official and can be interpreted as demeaning to journalism.

Sitorus has disputed the characterization of his remarks. In a clarification statement, he maintained that his comment about "sirkus" referred to the disorderly state of the meeting room—which was crowded with standing participants—and was not directed at journalists. He noted that his exact words were: "Pimpinan, mohon ruangan ditertibkan, banyak sekali yang berdiri di sini, padahal ada ruangan balkon di atas. Sudah seperti sirkus kita ini" (Chairman, please organize the room, many people standing here when there is a balcony room upstairs. This is already like a circus). He stated the phrase did not target any individual or group, and noted that journalists are permitted to attend open commission sessions. He urged journalists to verify facts and conduct confirmations before reporting, and expressed respect for journalism as an important democratic institution.