Demystifying the Root Problem in Indonesian Politics: The Impact of Direct Elections

Indonesia is a nation deeply rooted in democratic values, yet its political landscape faces significant challenges, with one of the major flaws being its system of direct elections. This system, while aiming to promote democratic participation, has led to a host of issues that need addressing.

The System of Direct Elections in Indonesian Politics

Indonesia's system of direct elections allows the people to directly choose their representatives at various levels of government. For instance, in my hometown of Demak, part of the Central Java VII electoral district, the 2019 election saw 16 parties and 80 candidates contesting for 7 seats in the DPR (People's Representative Council). For the 2024 election, 17 parties have passed the national verification process, though the exact number of candidates and seats has not been determined as of yet. Similar to 2019, it is expected to be a close race with many contenders.

While this system seems more democratic and participatory, it also has many drawbacks and problems. One significant issue is the proliferation of celebrity candidates in the upcoming 2024 election. Many political parties have nominated artists, singers, actors, and other public figures as potential legislators, hoping to win the favor of the public through their familiar faces and names. Despite this, these candidates may lack the necessary knowledge and expertise to tackle political matters effectively.

The Downside of Celebrity Candidates in Indonesian Politics

Celebrity candidates, though potentially appealing to voters, do not always represent the interests or aspirations of their constituents. Moreover, their influence can be easily manipulated by more powerful and financially astute actors within the political arena. This creates a risk that these candidates will fail to stand up for their constituents' best interests once elected.

The Corrupt Loop in Direct Elections

Another major issue with the direct election system is the potential for a corrupt loop. Candidates often need to spend a significant amount of money on campaigns to gain votes, and once elected, they may feel compelled to engage in corrupt practices to recoup these expenditures. This cycle perpetuates a culture of corruption that can erode public trust in the political system.

For instance, during the 2019 and 2024 elections, various candidates spent substantial sums of money on campaigns, sometimes gaining the support of voters through unethical means. Once elected, these candidates may find themselves bound to their donors and more powerful actors, further entrenching their corruption.

The Need for Reform in Indonesian Politics

Given these significant flaws, it is evident that the direct election system is the biggest flaw in Indonesian politics. Reforms or a replacement with a more suitable and effective system are necessary to address these issues.

Here are a few potential reform measures that could be considered:

Enhanced Campaign Financing Regulations: Implementing stricter regulations on campaign financing to prevent undue influence from wealthy donors and ensure transparency. Improving Expertise and Education: Ensuring that candidates have the necessary knowledge and expertise to handle political issues effectively, perhaps through mandatory training programs or educational assessments. Responsible Electoral Processes: Strengthening the electoral process to minimize corruption and increase accountability, including stricter oversight and enforcement of laws.

By addressing these issues head-on, Indonesia can move towards a more effective and just political system that truly represents the interests of its citizens.

Navigating the Challenges of Indonesian Politics#160;in the face of political challenges can be daunting, but with a commitment to reform and improvement, a more equitable and effective system is achievable. Let us aspire to build a better future for Indonesia, where the people are truly the voice of their nation.