That morning, the news exploded across television channels and online media. Devandra’s face appeared on the screen, carrying that same calm, signature smile—as though untouched by the uproar of leaked data that had been circulating for days.

“Ladies and gentlemen,” Devandra’s voice rang steady from the television, “I want to make it clear that these accusations are nothing but part of a dirty conspiracy. Certain parties are trying to tarnish my reputation, manipulating data, and steering public opinion for their own benefit.”

He paused, then locked eyes with the camera with sharp intensity. “I believe the Indonesian people are intelligent. They won’t be easily provoked by false news spread by...