Local Elections, (Not) Idol Stage
The people really hope that elections will return to their "roots" as a contestation that produces figures who glorify the interests of the people. Not idols that produce disasters.
J Kristiadi
It is almost certain that the 2020 local elections will be held simultaneously in December amid the rampage of the Covid-19 epidemic, which has not been tamed. In fact, Covid-19 transmissions are widespread and the number of cases has only grown (Kompas, 22/6/2020). The task of the General Election Commission in the regions will be harder and more complicated because they have to apply health protocols at every stage so as not to increase the number of people exposed to the disease caused by the new coronavirus.
The hard work of the election organizers deserves appreciation. But unfortunately, in the lead up to the 2020 elections, public discussion has been dominated by talks about the instruments of the election, rules of the game and procedures. Other crucial issues, such as rampant transactional politics, strengthening political dynasties and bureaucratic politicization, tend to be left out. The issue of politicization of social assistance, political party reform, decentralization and asymmetric elections, concurrent elections, political party subsidies and the like are always marginalized in the lead up to local elections or Pilkada.