Jakarta – With two months remaining until the presidential and legislative elections scheduled for mid-February, the political climate in Indonesia is heating up with about 206 million voters set to participate. The elections, unique in combining the presidential and vice-presidential elections with thousands of legislative seats in a single day, have led to early political alignments resulting in the formation of three primary coalitions after months of negotiations and maneuvering.
The Election Commission organized the first of five presidential debates last Tuesday evening, where Anies Baswedan, the candidate of the Change Coalition, launched into discussions with a speech focusing on legal reform. Baswedan emphasized his vision of transforming Indonesia into a country ruled by justice rather than power, condemning any manipulation of the law by the authorities. His campaign is noteworthy for addressing issues like impunity, advocating transparency, communication with all segments of society, and preserving the freedom of expression for everyone.
He also highlighted the need for community involvement in combating corruption and criticized the erosion of democratic life due to a loss of faith in existing institutions. To regain public trust, Baswedan is calling for fair and transparent elections and advocating for the rights of the opposition to balance criticism and oversight.
Alternatively, Prabowo Subianto, aged 72, defended the performance of current President Joko Widodo despite their past electoral confrontations. Subianto praised Widodo for his repeated visits to the Papua region and refuted any notions of dictatorship or authoritarian tendencies linked to the president. He promised enforcement of law and order, protection against what he describes as terrorists, and an emphasis on economic and social development.
In the debate, Subianto underscored his commitment to the rule of law and improving state services, acknowledging some shortcomings but reminding voters that Indonesia fares better than many war-torn nations.
Ganjar Pranowo, representing the ruling party, approached the debate with caution, carefully selecting his words as he faces a rival endorsed by his colleague, President Widodo, and his coalition partners. Pranowo’s efforts to chip away at Subianto’s popularity included promises of service improvements, engaging citizens in decision-making, a focus on women and children, and a commitment to prosecuting corrupt officials.
The landscape of coalitions and split alliances has led to the formation of “Change for Unity,” orchestrated by the National Democratic Party, supporting the Change Coalition, together with the opposition Prosperous Justice Party and other parties that were till recently part of the governing structure.
President Widodo has made a different choice for the presidential race, endorsing his former rival, retired General Subianto. This move has led to the establishment of a separate coalition from the ruling party’s alliance, combining secular, nationalist, and religious parties, such as Subianto’s Great Indonesia Movement Party and others that were once part of the current government’s alliance.
As the electoral campaign unfolds and debates continue, Indonesians remain attentive to the messages of hope, promises of justice, and visions of progress presented by the candidates. The nation anticipates a robust competition that will ultimately shape the country’s future trajectory.
