Publica: Jurnal Pemikiran Administrasi Negara
Vol. 18 No. 1 (2026): Publica

The Dynamics of Local Government Crisis Communication in the Post-Truth Era: A Case Study of The Land and Building Tax Increase Controversy in Cirebon City

Sulistiyo, Heru (Unknown)
Alamsyah, Kamal (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
04 Feb 2026

Abstract

This study analyzes the dynamics of public policy communication in the post-truth era, using the case study of the Land and Building Tax (PBB) increase controversy in Cirebon City in 2024. This study aims to identify government communication strategies, explore the role of media and disinformation, and uncover new findings related to the adaptation of government communication amidst the crisis. A qualitative-descriptive approach was used, using critical discourse analysis techniques for policy documents, online media coverage, and official government statements. Key findings indicate that the government's communication strategy was initially reactive and tended to use a one-way model (Public Information and Two-Way Asymmetrical), which was ineffective in dampening public sentiment. However, public pressure forced the government to reactively shift to a two-way symmetrical communication model, which was realized through the revocation of the Mayoral Regulation (Perwali). This shift occurred not as a proactive choice, but rather as a defensive response to the crisis triggered by the post-truth environment. This report recommends that the government adopt a more proactive and adaptive communication model from the outset to prevent crisis escalation and build sustainable public trust.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

publica

Publisher

Subject

Religion Humanities Economics, Econometrics & Finance Law, Crime, Criminology & Criminal Justice Social Sciences

Description

Publica: Jurnal Pemikiran Administrasi Negara is an open access scholarly peer-reviewed journal written in either Indonesia or English which invariably publishes twice a year in June and December. Publica encourages academicians, researchers, professionals and practitioners to share and publish ...