West Java Governor Accused of Online Harassment After Critic’s Video Goes Viral
Election Watchdog Director Targeted Following Social Media Scrutiny
Civil society groups are sounding the alarm over alleged online intimidation directed at **Neni Nur Hayati**, a prominent election watchdog official known for her sharp critiques of the West Java provincial government and other elected figures.
Governor’s Video Sparks Controversy
The situation escalated on July 14 when West Java Governor **Dedi Mulyadi** posted a video on his official Instagram account. In the video, he defended his administration against accusations of funding social media “buzzers,” challenging anyone to scrutinize the provincial budget with the regional secretary. He concluded his message with a pointed remark: “Send my regards to the *mbak* [woman] in hijab.”
The following day, five official West Java administration Instagram accounts—@diskominfojabar, @humas_jabar, @jabarprovgoid, @sapawarga_jabar, and @jabarsaberhoaks—reposted Governor **Mulyadi**’s video. They appended a screenshot from a TikTok video previously uploaded by **Neni Nur Hayati** in May, where she criticized the use of social media “buzzers” by state officials and institutions without naming specific entities.
Criticism Extends Beyond One Official
**Neni Nur Hayati**, who frequently wears a hijab in her online appearances, confirmed that while she had indeed posted videos critical of Governor **Mulyadi**, her commentary extends to a broader range of public figures. She emphasized her consistent stance, stating, “I do it toward all elected officials.” Her social media critiques have also targeted prominent national politicians, including President **Prabowo Subianto**.
The use of social media influencers or “buzzers” by government entities is a growing concern globally. In 2023, the United Nations noted that at least 100 countries had reported government manipulation of social media, often employing paid influencers to shape public opinion (United Nations Report on Digital Authoritarianism).
The actions by the governor’s office and affiliated accounts have been interpreted by watchdog groups as a retaliatory measure and an attempt to silence critical voices, particularly those of women in public discourse.
