Thousands of protesters have taken to the streets in Indonesia to voice their opposition against the government’s attempt to overturn a recent constitutional court ruling. This decision would have allowed smaller political parties to participate more actively in upcoming elections.
Demonstrators have congregated outside parliament in Jakarta, as well as in major cities such as Padang, Bandung, and Yogyakarta.
On Wednesday, Indonesia’s top court ruled that political parties would no longer be required to have a minimum of 20% representation in regional assemblies to nominate candidates.
However, within 24 hours, the parliament proposed an emergency motion aimed at reversing this ruling, provoking widespread outrage and concerns about a potential constitutional crisis.
The fast-tracked legislation, which seeks to restore previous electoral regulations, is expected to pass later today. This reversal would maintain the existing political landscape, favoring the ruling coalition led by outgoing President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo and his successor Prabowo Subianto, leading to possibly uncontested local elections.
The proposed changes would also hinder a prominent government critic, Anies Baswedan, from running for the crucial position of Jakarta governor.
Furthermore, the government is exploring ways to circumvent the court’s decision on the minimum age requirement of 30 for candidates, which would prevent Widodo’s 29-year-old son, Kaesang Pangarep, from contesting in a regional election in Central Java.
In addition, Mr. Widodo’s eldest son, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, is set to assume the role of vice president after running alongside Mr. Prabowo.
Political analysts warn that the ongoing power struggle between Indonesia’s parliament, largely supportive of Mr. Widodo, and the constitutional court may lead to a significant political crisis.
Yet, Mr. Widodo has downplayed the controversy, framing the amendments as integral to maintaining governmental checks and balances.
One of the protesters, Joko Anwar, expressed concerns over the leaders’ intentions, suggesting that they aim to solidify their grip on power. “We have no choice but to take to the streets,” he declared.
Social media has seen an influx of blue posters featuring the phrase “Emergency Warning” alongside Indonesia’s emblematic national eagle.
Election analyst Titi Anggraini from the University of Indonesia criticized parliament’s actions, labeling them unconstitutional. “This is an assault on the constitution,” she stated.
