Independent Report – Rahmat Saleh, a member of Commission II of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR). He has warned that the revision of the Election Law must address the dangers posed by the so-called “democracy mafia.” He emphasized the need to prevent repeat voting or Pemungutan Suara Ulang (PSU). Which can be exploited by corrupt individuals or groups to manipulate the election process.
He stated, “While the issue is still fresh, it is clear that PSU is a significant drain on energy and financial resources. Even leading to the loss of lives. This is why we hope the new RUU will take measures to prevent PSU from happening.” Rahmat Saleh emphasized in his statement on May 6, 2025.
The primary cause of PSU, according to Rahmat, lies in the lack of integrity and the declining quality of election organizers. He also pointed out that the political education of the public seems increasingly detached from democratic values, which only exacerbates the situation. Another troubling factor is the possibility that some PSU events may be intentionally created to benefit certain parties.
Rahmat elaborated, saying, “There is even suspicion that PSU is deliberately orchestrated. We have discovered cases where certain polling stations seemed eager for another round of PSU. Why? Because some people benefit financially when PSU occurs.” He further explained that election organizers often receive additional honoraria, political party representatives gain more work. And also communities in the affected areas receive “rewards.” As a result, there is a tendency for some to deliberately allow non-registered voters to cast ballots. Triggering legal challenges and subsequent PSUs.
This phenomenon, Rahmat argues, could result in PSU becoming a breeding ground for malicious agents trying to manipulate the election process. Not only candidates but also organizers and the public might exploit the system for personal or financial gain. If this trend continues, it could undermine the integrity of Indonesia’s democracy and turn PSU into a “business opportunity” for the so-called democracy mafia.
Also Read : Italian Town of Fornelli Sets Up Monument to Bitcoin Creator
Rahmat also highlighted the tragic events in Puncak Jaya during the 2024 simultaneous regional elections. Where numerous lives were lost and hundreds of people were injured in connection with a PSU. This tragedy, according to Rahmat. Serves as a stark reminder of the high cost of repeat voting, which goes beyond just financial expenses and extends to human lives.
In light of these events, Rahmat has suggested that the General Election Commission (KPU) involve additional law enforcement agencies. Apart from the police and military, to ensure the security of PSU processes. He also recommended involving the Indonesian State Intelligence Agency (BIN) for intelligence sharing to prevent future incidents.
“We need to take preventive measures and actively engage in mitigation efforts. This will help the public understand the importance of fair elections and the democratic process, preventing further tragedies like the one in Puncak Jaya,” Rahmat said.
In a related development, Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Bima Arya Sugiarto called for a comprehensive evaluation of PSU procedures. He emphasized the need to close loopholes to prevent future PSU incidents, urging a discussion of the legal processes involved. Particularly how the Constitutional Court (MK) handles electoral disputes.
“PSU must be thoroughly evaluated to ensure that similar issues do not arise again,” said Bima Arya in a statement on May 6, 2025. He stressed that political commitment without interference is crucial to maintaining the integrity of the election process. Bima encouraged all stakeholders to commit to neutrality and refrain from any form of intervention, which could compromise the fairness of the elections.
Bima also assured that he, along with the Minister of Home Affairs Ribka Haluk, would monitor PSU procedures closely. Together with the Ministry’s Directorate General of Regional Autonomy (Otda) and Directorate General of Regional Financial Development (Keuda), they aim to ensure that election budgets are efficiently managed.
“Our goal is to ensure that the budget is used as efficiently as possible. We will not let it go to waste,” Bima added.
These discussions and measures reflect the growing concern over the integrity of the election process in Indonesia and the need for robust reforms to prevent exploitation and protect the democratic system from corruption.
Also Read : Government Must Take Firm Action Against Thuggish Ormas
