THE ROLE OF THE CORRUPTION ERADICATION COMMISSION IN IMPROVING THE INTEGRITY OF CRIMINAL LAW ENFORCEMENT

Abstract

This study examines the role of the Komisi Pemberantasan Korupsi (KPK) or Corruption Eradication Commission in enhancing the integrity of criminal law enforcement in Indonesia. Corruption remains a systemic issue that undermines public trust and weakens the justice system. The establishment of the KPK under Law No. 30 of 2002, amended by Law No. 19 of 2019, represents the state’s effort to ensure independent, transparent, and accountable anti-corruption enforcement. The research employs a normative juridical approach, analyzing primary and secondary legal sources, including legislation, academic writings, and official reports. It aims to determine the extent of the KPK’s effectiveness, authority, and challenges in maintaining legal integrity within Indonesia’s criminal justice system. The formulated hypothesis posits that the KPK plays a vital role in strengthening the quality of law enforcement through prevention, prosecution, and education. The findings indicate that while the KPK has significantly improved transparency and accountability, its independence has been partially reduced following the 2019 amendment, which introduced supervisory control and limited operational autonomy. Furthermore, the study highlights structural, political, and cultural challenges that hinder the institution’s optimal performance. Comparative analysis with anti-corruption agencies in Malaysia, Singapore, and Hong Kong shows that institutional independence and strong preventive frameworks are essential for sustainable anti-corruption governance. This research contributes to academic and policy discussions by emphasizing the importance of reinforcing KPK’s institutional capacity, ensuring inter-agency cooperation, and fostering a culture of integrity as key strategies for achieving effective and credible law enforcement in Indonesia.

Keywords: Law Enforcement; Corruption Eradication; Criminal Justice System.