HUMAS USU – Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU) has responded to reports alleging bribery and vote manipulation in the rector election (Pilrek). The university firmly stated that these accusations are not based on facts and have the potential to mislead public opinion.

Chairman of the USU Academic Senate, Prof. Dr. Drs. Budi Agustono, M.S., explained that the entire Pilrek process at USU has been carried out in accordance with university statutes and prevailing regulations. Each senate member has full independence in making their choice without interference from anyone.

“USU has a clear and measurable mechanism. The rector election is conducted based on the principles of academic democracy and integrity. There is no room for transactional practices,” he emphasized in a press release on Friday (12/9/2025).

The issue that implicated the names of Prof. Evawany Yunita Aritonang, Prof. Ir. T. Sabrina, M.Agr.Sc., Ph.D., and Prof. Luthfi Aziz Mahmud Siregar was deemed unfounded and damaging both to their personal reputations and to the institution. Prof. Sabrina asserted that she never received any funds related to the rector election as alleged in reports.

“We, as professors, are focused on maintaining the dignity of the university. It is not true that any transactions took place, as has been alleged,” she said.

The Secretary of the Board of Trustees (MWA) and senate member, Prof. Dr. Tamrin, M.Sc., stressed that integrity is the main principle in every stage of the election. “Our decisions are based on academic interests and the future of the university. The rector election is an important moment, and every member understands their role,” stated Prof. Tamrin.

Member of the Academic Senate and Vice Rector V, Prof. Dr. Ir. Luhut Sihombing, MP, highlighted transparency as a cornerstone of the process. “Every stage is subject to internal oversight, and all members are respected in their freedom to make their choice without pressure or influence from any party,” he said.

Vice Rector II, Dr. Muhammad Arifin Nasution, also strongly denied allegations that he led a meeting to direct senate votes. “It is not true that there was a meeting intended to condition voting, let alone asking senate members to photograph their ballots. All senate members are free to make their choice according to conscience,” Arifin clarified.

Other individuals whose names were mentioned in some reports, such as Muhammad Romi Syahputra (Secretary of the Mathematics Study Program and Academic Senate member from FMIPA) and Muhammad Anggia Muchtar (Academic Senate member from Fasilkom-TI), also voiced objections. “I know nothing about those accusations. The rector election is a personal matter for each senate member,” said Romi. “Those allegations are baseless slander. I am even prepared to pursue legal action if necessary,” added Anggia.

USU stated that rumors of money flows ranging from Rp25–50 million are mere speculation being exaggerated to disrupt the conducive environment ahead of the election. The Academic Senate, as the body that holds voting power, cannot be influenced by any means. “The rector election is not just about choosing a leader, but also about upholding the dignity of the university. We ensure that this process is free of money politics,” said Prof. Budi Agustono.

USU also reminded the public that spreading information without valid evidence may cause unrest among the academic community and society at large.

“We will consider legal steps to safeguard the honor of the university, as well as the dignity of professors and lecturers who have been harmed. Upholding integrity and defending the reputation of USU is a necessity,” concluded Prof. Budi Agustono.