Yunus Bandu was born on 14 July 1942 in Kalosi, a small town in South Sulawesi, Indonesia. After completing his high school education, he enrolled in the Indonesian Military Academy.
Military Career
Yunus began his military service as a second lieutenant in 1966. Over the years, he ascended the ranks, ultimately reaching the position of lieutenant colonel. In 1983, he briefly served as the commander of the Cianjur military district for several months. Later, he was reassigned to Central Sulawesi, where he took on the role of chief of staff of the province’s military area.
Political Career
Sidenreng Rappang Regency
In the late 1980s, Yunus made a transition into politics. The Sidenreng Rappang local council in South Sulawesi elected him as the regent (district chief) of Sidenreng Rappang. Yunus was installed on 28 July 1988, replacing Opu Sidik. During his term, he proposed the construction of an Islamic center, which was realized after his tenure ended in 1993.
Luwu Regency
After the end of his term in Sidenreng Rappang, Yunus was nominated by the central government to become the regent of Luwu Regency. Despite facing strong opposition from local groups, he was eventually elected, as the government rejected the demands to reject his candidacy.
Golkar Party Involvement
Yunus was a member of the Golkar party. In the same year he became regent of Luwu, the South Sulawesi branch of Golkar held a local conference to elect a new chairman. Yunus, along with the Regent of Enrekang, Amin Syam, were the strongest candidates. Yunus later withdrew his candidacy, enabling Amin Syam to be elected without any opposition.
Death and Legacy
Yunus Bandu passed away on 4 September 2023 at the Wahidin Sudirohusodo hospital in Makassar. He was 81 years old.
His contributions to both the military and political landscapes of South Sulawesi have left a lasting impact, marking him as a significant figure in the region’s history.
