In the beginning, the public discourse was dichotomously antagonistic, assuming that proceeding with the simultaneous elections would be risking lives while postponing it would save lives.

The government, the House of Representatives Commission II and election organizers have disregarded the public’s calls to postpone the 2020 regional head elections until the COVID-19 pandemic is under control.

A number of candidates contesting the 2020 regional elections (Pilkada) have tested positive for Covid-19 during the registration stage.

The three-day registration stage for candidates contesting the 2020 regional elections (Pilkada) to be held simultaneously in 270 regions has been deemed a showcase of noncompliance with the Covid-19 health protocol.

Improving the general election system is an important institutional decision in any democratic country.

The 2019 elections were the first simultaneous elections in Indonesia. A number of circles expressed a belief the elections would significantly improve our political system.

Most preparations for the 2018 regional elections have been completed. The challenge lies in the strength of the democratic system, such as money politics and the neutrality of the organizers and the state apparatus.