Demonstrators ignited tensions in Jakarta on August 22, 2024, as protests erupted against a proposed reversal of the Constitutional Court’s decision on eligibility rules for candidates in upcoming elections. The unrest saw thousands occupying streets outside the Parliament building, where clashes ensued and some protesters attempted to breach the premises.
On Thursday, the ratification of changes to Indonesia’s election laws was abruptly halted as the legislature failed to achieve a quorum amid the escalating protests. If passed, the amendments would have significantly strengthened the political foothold of outgoing President Joko Widodo and could potentially undermine Indonesia’s democratic fabric.
In a marked emergency session, parliament aimed to overturn one ruling of the Constitutional Court related to election procedures while addressing another, but ultimately canceled the ratification due to the inability to convene. Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad stated, “This means that today the revision of the regional election law will not be implemented.”
Tensions escalated as Indonesian police deployed tear gas and water cannon against protesters, who responded by tearing down barriers and throwing objects. Demonstrators set fires and burned tires, asserting their demands for democratic integrity.
The Constitutional Court recently dismissed a challenge regarding an age limit barred individuals under 30 from contesting regional governorships, a decision that prevents Widodo’s youngest son, Kaesang Pangarep, from entering a regional election in Central Java.
Additionally, the court’s recent decisions made it easier for political parties to nominate candidates by reducing the threshold for local legislative representation. Despite plans to ratify a law easing age restrictions for gubernatorial candidates and modifying nomination requirements, widespread criticism and concerns about a potential constitutional crisis prompted parliament to halt the legislation.
Widodo, often referred to as Jokowi, began his second and final term in October 2019 and will leave office in October. His eldest son, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, is set to assume the role of vice president following a controversial court decision that exempted former regional leaders from the age limit for that position.
The protests drew participation from activists, students, workers, and various public figures, reflecting a collective apprehension regarding the democratic direction of Indonesia. Additional protests were noted in major cities including Bandung, Yogyakarta, Surabaya, and Makassar.
In Yogyakarta alone, over 1,000 people rallied at key city venues, demanding the rejection of the regional election bill, adherence to the Constitutional Court’s rulings, and an end to political dynasties. Political analyst Yoes Kenawas remarked that the demonstrations highlighted widespread discontent towards parliamentary attempts to override judicial decisions and reflected opposition to the dynastic politics associated with President Jokowi.
