<![CDATA[Abstract: The phenomenon of "Golput" (Golongan Putih or blank voting) in Indonesian elections raises fundamental constitutional questions about the nature of democratic participation and individual rights. This research examines the legal dimensions of abstention from voting within Indonesia's constitutional framework, particularly focusing on whether the right not to vote constitutes a legitimate form of political expression protected under constitutional principles. Using normative legal research methodology with constitutional, comparative law, and fiqh siyasah approaches, this study analyzes relevant constitutional provisions, election laws, judicial decisions, and Islamic jurisprudence perspectives. The research reveals that while Indonesian electoral law emphasizes active participation, the constitutional framework implicitly recognizes political abstention as part of democratic sovereignty. From an Islamic perspective, the concepts of syura (consultation), individual freedom, and tolerance provide theological foundations for recognizing the right not to vote. The study concludes that Golput represents a constitutional right that requires legal recognition and protection, though it must be balanced with the state's interest in democratic legitimacy and electoral participation.Keywords: abstention; constitutional rights; democracy; electoral law; political participation; fiqh siyasah.]]>
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