The Constitutional Court of Indonesia will announce an official decision on Monday (Apr. 22) regarding the dispute over the 2024 election results. The public hopes the Constitutional Court will make fair and wise decisions to improve democracy.
This sentiment was expressed during the “Kartini Rises: Safeguarding the Constitutional Court’s Decision for Indonesian Democracy” declaration, held on Sunday (Apr. 21) at the UGM Central Building.
Several women from academia, including professors and students, voiced their concerns, reflecting women’s apprehensions about Indonesia’s current democratic journey.
Professor Wiendu Nuryanti of the UGM Faculty of Engineering (FT UGM) stated that the call should serve as a reminder and appeal to state officials to always adhere to the truth of the constitution.
She emphasized that academic freedom and a strong democracy will lead Indonesia toward a fair and prosperous nation, as stated in the country’s founding principles.
She added that she hopes the Constitutional Court will respond wisely and genuinely to allegations of ethical and normative violations through this declaration.
According to Professor Nuryanti, RA Kartini symbolizes the strength and representation of Indonesian women. Given her background in advocating for women’s education, Kartini’s spirit embodies a different mission today.
She noted that women’s struggle for rights and freedom was not an easy path to navigate in the past.
The history of women’s struggle cannot stop there. Contemporary women face new challenges in a new era.
“If in the past, RA Kartini fought for women’s education, then today, it is the responsibility of educated women to restore the essence of democracy,” she stated.
She continued that two constitutional mandates for academics are stated in this declaration: to educate the nation and build civilization. Both are reasons for women to contribute to upholding the law and democracy, which have been subject to many deviations.
The Constitutional Court’s decision on election violation allegations, which will be announced on Apr. 22, is expected to provide a wise and genuine response to the ethical and normative violations of democracy.
“The Constitutional Court is the offspring of the reformation because it was formed to ensure that the state always adheres to the constitution and democracy. Therefore, it is only right for the Court to side with the people as the highest sovereignty of democracy,” said Dr. Okky Madasari, a literary figure and UGM alumnus.
Antonella, a student from the UGM Faculty of Law (FH UGM) representing the youth voice, also expressed similar sentiments.
She stated that instead of advocating for gender equality, the collapse of democracy is also on the agenda for Indonesian women. She also expressed concerns about the demands and stereotypes placed on young people today.
“Kartini fought for gender equality in work and strived for her nation’s progress, which is why I feel responsible as an Indonesian. I want to live in a country where democracy can provide fair and equal opportunities for the younger generation,” emphasized Antonella.
The declaration concluded with great hope and a message to the Constitutional Court to make just decisions. Therefore, women’s call on Kartini Day should serve as a reminder and appeal to all citizens to always adhere to the truth of the constitution.
Author: Tasya
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Photographer: Firsto