TULUNGAGUNG – The appointment of Tri Hariadi Acting Regional Secretary has drawn positive reactions from academics, who see the move as a strategic step to restore bureaucratic stability and public trust in Tulungagung.

Acting Regent Ahmad Baharudin reinstated Tri Hariadi on Monday (May 4), a decision observers say goes beyond a routine reshuffle. Instead, they view it as a calculated effort to unify internal ranks after signs of fragmentation within the local administration.

Public policy analyst Andreas Andrie Djatmiko said Baharudin correctly identified the region’s most urgent need, strong leadership capable of bringing cohesion.

“Baharudin sees Tri Hariadi as a unifying figure. The public had sensed fragmentation within the administration, and this is exactly what Tulungagung needs right now,” he said.

Andreas added that Tri Hariadi’s track record and long experience in the bureaucracy make him a strong choice. He stressed that the decision stands above political affiliations and focuses on restoring public confidence.

“This decision goes beyond political camps. It is the right move to rebuild trust in the local government,” he said.

He even described Tri Hariadi’s return as a form of “recovery remedy” for the bureaucracy. According to him, Tri’s experience can help reset governance rhythm and improve institutional performance.

“Tri Hariadi has proven capacity. His return as Acting Regional Secretary can serve as a recovery therapy for Tulungagung,” Andreas said.

He also urged the administration to use this moment as a turning point to improve governance. However, he emphasized that success will depend on leadership integrity at the top level.

“This should mark a shift toward better governance. But it ultimately depends on Ahmad Baharudin’s commitment to clean and accountable leadership,” he added.

With growing support from various stakeholders, the ongoing bureaucratic consolidation is expected to accelerate public trust recovery. It may also help ensure development programs stay on course and deliver tangible results for residents.