As Indonesia approaches the crucial phase of the 2024 election, the prevalence of money politics is rising. This tactic, commonly employed by political candidates, aims to sway public opinion by offering various incentives.
The issue was directly addressed by a political expert from the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences at UGM, Dr. Mada Sukmajati, and Umi Illiyina, the Head of the Yogyakarta Election Supervisory Board (Bawaslu), during a media discussion on Tuesday (Feb. 13).
“Reflecting on the events of 2019, we observed conventional methods. During a sting operation in Sleman, we intercepted a transaction worth 1.2 billion rupiahs. Despite being caught upon arrival in Sleman, this illustrates the persistent nature of money politics. Fast forward to 2024, technological advancements and stagnant regulations have created loopholes,” noted Umi Illiyina.
The modus operandi of money politics has evolved, becoming increasingly difficult to detect as transactions shift to digital platforms. Bribery tactics now extend beyond cash, encompassing goods and services.
Illiyina highlighted that Indonesia, alongside several other nations undergoing elections, grapples with concerns regarding money politics. In some regions like Latin America, money politics takes the form of shares, posing heightened risks as regulations struggle to keep pace with evolving practices.
Cases of money politics in the current electoral cycle have demonstrably disadvantaged the public, particularly concerning voting rights and data privacy. Political parties now easily access population data, including identification numbers and phone numbers. The Special Region of Yogyakarta ranks among the top 10 provinces vulnerable to money politics.
“Political parties possess extensive population data for distributing envelopes and other forms of bribery. Money politics today transcends currency. Instances involve grants like hajj and umrah guarantees, cows, and gold rings. While seemingly trivial to parties, these items hold significant value for the public,” explained Illiyina.
Bawaslu views the quiet period as a critical phase requiring heightened vigilance.
“From now until 9 p.m., the quiet period is vulnerable to political exploitation. Given Bawaslu’s limited resources, we urge the public to help safeguard our elections,” added Illiyina.
Addressing the surge in social assistance budgets preceding the 2024 election, Dr. Mada Sukmajati, lecturer and political expert from the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, emphasized the importance of public awareness. While providing social assistance aligns with regulations, the sudden increase before elections raises suspicions of ulterior motives.
“This phenomenon, persistent over time, underscores the need for public education. Accepting social assistance should not compromise voting rights, which ultimately rests with the people. While societal dependence on assistance persists, voters should remain discerning of the benefactors,” Dr. Sukmajati opined.
Although money politics remains pervasive, raising public awareness can empower voters to exercise their rights independently.
The 2024 election, slated for Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024, marks a pivotal moment for Indonesian democracy. The public’s discernment in selecting capable leaders for the upcoming term is crucial. With hopes for a fair, free, and democratic election, Dr. Sukmajati stressed the importance of guarding against manipulation during this critical juncture.
“The forefront of our election is the voting tomorrow. This is where the crucial stage is. All election participants say let the people decide. But if it is not guarded, that good advice is just part of the manipulation,” emphasized Dr. Sukmajati.
Author: Tasya