Joko Widodo’s penchant for metal has landed the Jakarta Governor in some serious hot water. Having lived through the ultimate fan boy experience and receiving a signed bass guitar from Metallica bassist Robert Trujillo, Widodo is now in trouble with the country’s corruption body Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) who believe the gift may be a conflict of interest.
As per Indonesian law, all gifts presented to public officials must be reported to the commission within 30 days of receipt. Widodo was probably too distracted with his gift, which bears the words “To Jokowi, Keep Playing That Cool, Funky Bass!” from Trujillo. He has since vowed to follow proper procedure, commenting “If they say I can’t have it, so be it. I will return the guitar to the state.” Widodo also defended his position by stating that he saw the bass as a souvenir rather than a gift.
Widodo had apparently asked the band to perform in the country and is an avid metal head. The KPK seem undeterred by the sentiment of the guitar with a spokesperson stating the rules must be followed, but if all is in the clear it will be returned. “After 30 days, we will announce if the gift can be returned to the recipient or should be confiscated by the state.”
Via Jakarta Globe
