Democratic Party Considers DPRD Elections
The Democratic Party of Indonesia has announced its support for conducting regional elections via Regional Representative Councils (DPRD). Herman Khaeron, the Secretary General of the DPP Democratic Party, highlighted that the country’s constitution provides the flexibility to choose between direct elections and those conducted through DPRD. This viewpoint aligns with a nationwide discourse on potential revisions to the electoral system to strengthen local governments’ effectiveness, enhance leadership quality, and maintain political stability. While the 1945 Constitution is seen as granting the freedom to choose a mechanism, the debate remains relevant given that former President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono had previously contested such practices. Within the national strategy, the Democratic Party stated its alignment with President Prabowo Subianto in seeking an optimal election system. Herman Khaeron noted that resolving this dilemma requires comprehensive consideration to ensure long-term benefits for the country through effective political leadership and collaboration between central and regional authorities. Such changes are expected not only to preserve political unity but also to elevate the quality of regional leaders. It is crucial to emphasize that any decision on this issue should reflect the desire to improve democratic principles and consider all stakeholders’ opinions. In the context of planning, the current course is viewed as part of a broad approach to modernizing Indonesia’s political infrastructure, aiming to make the process more purposeful and outcome-driven.
