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Politik Indonesia: Indonesian Political Science Review
ISSN : -     EISSN : 25034456     DOI : https://doi.org/10.15294/jpi
Core Subject : Social,
Politik Indonesia: Indonesian Political Science Review, also known as IPSR, is political sciences premier scholarly journal on Indonesian politics, providing peer-reviewed articles, review essays, and book reviews from subfields throughout the discipline.
Articles 29 Documents
POLITICAL PARTIES AND PARLIAMENTARY SEAT REPLACEMENT: A COMPARATIVE STUDY ACROSS FIVE DEMOCRACIES Nurdin, Ali; Ariyan, Said; Romli, Ombi
Politik Indonesia: Indonesian Political Science Review Vol. 10 No. 1 (2025): General Issues
Publisher : Universitas Negeri Semarang

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15294/jpi.v10i1.34788

Abstract

The mechanism of interim replacement of parliamentarians constitutes a critical pillar of democratic representation, serving not only to ensure administrative continuity but also to reveal the extent of political parties’ influence over vacated legislative seats.  This study conducts a cross-country comparative analysis of the role of political parties in interim replacement mechanisms (IRP)  across five democracies: Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, and the United States. Using a qualitative comparative  approach complemented by a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) of 58 scholarly works, the research examines the legal frameworks, institutional arrangements, and accountability dimensions that shape IRP. Findings demonstrate that in Indonesia and the Philippines, party elites wield dominant authority under the open-list system, frequently marginalising constituent participation and consolidating internal party power. In Malaysia and Singapore, although by-elections are formally prescribed, institutional loopholes and discretionary powers enable parties or governments to delay or circumvent these mechanisms, thereby compromising electoral legitimacy. Conversely, the United States exhibits higher levels of public participation through mandated special elections, with temporary gubernatorial appointments remaining tightly constrained. These variations underscore that the influence of political parties in IRP is highly contingent on each country’s institutional design, electoral rules, and governance norms. The study highlights the normative and practical implications of these arrangements and advocates democratic reforms that enhance transparency, institutional checks, and participatory safeguards, particularly in systems where parties retain near-absolute control. By linking institutional design to representative accountability, the article provides actionable insights for policymakers, scholars, and democracy advocates striving to foster more inclusive, transparent, and resilient legislative governance. 
The Presence of Padmasari Mestikajati as Women Representation on Politics Tegar Muhammad Rafly; Muhammad Nizar Rohman; Najma Nuraisyah
Politik Indonesia: Indonesian Political Science Review Vol. 10 No. 2 (2025): General Issues
Publisher : Universitas Negeri Semarang

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15294/jpi.v10i2.17936

Abstract

This study aims to analyze Padmasari Mestikajati's work as a representation of women in Indonesian politics, particularly in the context of local politics, which is still characterized by low female representation and strong structural barriers such as patriarchal culture, male elite domination, limited access to political resources, and the placement of female candidates in non-strategic positions. Focusing on Padmasari's campaign strategies and legislative contributions in the Central Java Provincial House of Representatives (DPRD), this study uses descriptive qualitative methods through interviews, observations, and literature studies to examine the dynamics of local politics and gender policies. The results show that Padmasari's success in retaining her legislative seat for two terms was not only influenced by her personal political capital (political kinship and educational background), but also by her ability to optimize adaptive and contextual campaign strategies, as well as the support of the 30% affirmative action quota policy that increased women's representation. Unlike many female politicians who stop at descriptive representation, Padmasari demonstrates substantive representation through the initiation of pro-women policies, particularly the advocacy for the provision of lactation rooms and the strengthening of kindergarten education infrastructure. Thus, this study emphasizes the importance of examining female figures who are not only electorally successful but also capable of transforming representation into concrete policies, thereby contributing theoretically and empirically to the development of studies on women's representation in local politics in Indonesia.
EMPTY BOX AS SYMBOLIC ACTION: YOUNG VOTERS’ REJECTION OF THE SOLE CANDIDATE IN GRESIK’S LOCAL Erfina Dwi; Agus Machfud Fauzi; Rizky Trisna Putri
Politik Indonesia: Indonesian Political Science Review Vol. 10 No. 2 (2025): General Issues
Publisher : Universitas Negeri Semarang

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15294/jpi.v10i2.26062

Abstract

This study explores the symbolic meaning behind the choice of the "empty box" (kotak kosong) among young voters in the 2024 regional election (Pilkada) in Gresik, where only one candidate was on the ballot. Rather than seeing this choice as political apathy, this research interprets it as a conscious act of resistance and a demand for genuine political representation. Using a qualitative descriptive approach and symbolic interactionism theory, the study examines how young voters construct political meaning through their decision to vote for the empty box. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with informants aged 17–25 who reside in Gresik and intentionally voted for the empty box. The findings reveal that their decisions were shaped by critical reflection, peer discourse, and disillusionment with the lack of electoral competition. The act of selecting the empty box is understood as a symbolic expression of frustration, political identity, and expectations for democratic renewal. This study contributes by offering an empirical explanation of how symbolic political choices function as a form of youth resistance, a dimension rarely discussed in previous research on uncontested elections in Indonesia. It also provides a nuanced interpretation of the empty-box vote as a meaning-making process rather than a mere protest action.
ASSESSING THE IMPLEMENTATION OF ONE DATA INDONESIA AND DIGITAL HEALTH AGENDA WITHIN THE DECENTRALIZATION ERA Mustofa, Mustabsyirotul Ummah; M. Arief Virgy; Ahmad Mikail
Politik Indonesia: Indonesian Political Science Review Vol. 10 No. 2 (2025): General Issues
Publisher : Universitas Negeri Semarang

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15294/jpi.v10i2.33380

Abstract

This study critically examines the implementation of One Data Indonesia in the health sector, with a particular focus on the SATUSEHAT platform, within Indonesia’s decentralized governance framework. While One Data Indonesia has been promoted as a cornerstone of evidence-based policymaking and digital health transformation, its implementation in underdeveloped and fiscally constrained regions remains uneven. Good data governance is vital for effective healthcare delivery as it enables informed decision-making and enhances accountability. Without proper data governance, timely and accurate information dissemination becomes challenging, hindering the design, monitoring, and evaluation of effective policies. This necessitates addressing various aspects of data governance in health, such as data fragmentation in healthcare facilities to central institutions. This study uses qualitative methods with a case approach, including data collection techniques and secondary documents. This research finds that local governments face numerous challenges in aligning with national policies, including limited regional fiscal capacity, administrative constraints, and human resource shortages. They often rely heavily on central government transfers. Additionally, the capacity of local agencies in data management still needs to be improved. In essence, the narrative underscores that good data governance is a collective endeavor, requiring the active and informed participation of diverse stakeholders. This study contributes to the literature by providing empirically grounded insights into how decentralization conditions digital health data governance in developing countries.
HOW RIDWAN KAMIL BUILDS POLITICAL PERSONAL BRANDING ON INSTAGRAM AMONG FIRST-TIME VOTERS AFIFAH ZAHRAH; ANDHARA MAULIDA PUTRI; A. Fernanda Avrilia Dinasti Ekasanti; Rofiatun Alfa Alfi Inayati
Politik Indonesia: Indonesian Political Science Review Vol. 10 No. 2 (2025): General Issues
Publisher : Universitas Negeri Semarang

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15294/jpi.v10i2.17591

Abstract

This article examines Instagram’s role as a tool for Ridwan Kamil in building and enhancing his image among young voters. As a politician, Ridwan Kamil leverages social media platforms to reach broader audiences, particularly the younger generation, who are highly active online. This study analyzes three main aspects: the use of Instagram to boost popularity and deliver creative and engaging political messages to young voters, Ridwan Kamil’s personal branding strategies on social media through visual content, interactions, and narratives, and the impact of these efforts on his public image. The research employs a qualitative descriptive approach, drawing on secondary literature, including content analysis of the @ridwankamil Instagram account, academic journals, books, and platform statistics. The findings reveal that Instagram is an effective tool for fostering a positive image among young voters through creative, authentic, and interactive approaches that enhance popularity and emotional connections with the public. This study contributes practical insights for Indonesian politicians on digital communication strategies in the modern era and offers recommendations for sustainable personal branding to mitigate perceptions of superficial image-building. These insights underscore the value of social media in effective political communication today.
PRACTICES OF LOCAL AUTHORITARIANISM: THREATS TO VILLAGE DEMOCRACY IN THE VILLAGE HEAD ELECTION IN PUCANGREJO Mukhammad Alfayn
Politik Indonesia: Indonesian Political Science Review Vol. 10 No. 3 (2025): General Issues
Publisher : Universitas Negeri Semarang

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15294/jpi.v10i3.20039

Abstract

Village head elections (Pilkades) serve as a mechanism of local democracy to ensure representation and community participation. However, in Pucangrejo Village, practices of local authoritarianism have undermined the integrity of this democratic process. This study explores various violations of democratic principles, such as the manipulation of Computer Assisted Tests (CAT), pre-registration exclusion of candidates, and the use of political strategies to maintain elite dominance. Using a qualitative case study approach, the research analyzes the dynamics of power and the role of local elites in controlling the Pilkades process. The findings reveal that local elites exploit administrative regulations and patronage politics to restrict the participation of independent candidates, creating unfair competition, and eroding public trust in local institutions. These manipulations not only threaten the sustainability of village democracy but also contribute to declining political participation, the erosion of government legitimacy, and social polarization. The study recommends reforms for more transparent Pilkades regulations, stronger independent oversight, and community empowerment to strengthen democracy at the local level.
MONEY POLITICS IN THE SIMULTANEOUS ELECTIONS IN BATU CITY: NETWORKS, PRACTICES, AND DRIVING FACTORS Ach. Apriyanto Romadhan Apriyanto
Politik Indonesia: Indonesian Political Science Review Vol. 10 No. 3 (2025): General Issues
Publisher : Universitas Negeri Semarang

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15294/jpi.v10i3.36701

Abstract

Money politics remains a serious challenge to the consolidation of democracy in Indonesia. Despite ongoing reforms to electoral institutions, vote buying and other material inducements continue to erode electoral integrity. This study analyzes the dynamics of money politics in the simultaneous elections in Batu City, East Java, a relatively prosperous region that no longer faces high poverty rates. To explain the persistence of this practice beyond economic factors, the study uses a qualitative descriptive approach through in-depth interviews with seven voters and two campaign team members. These are analyzed using interactive analysis, supplemented by direct observation and document review. The findings indicate that money politics manifests in four main patterns: vote buying, individual gifts, club goods, and pork barrels, which are carried out through patron-client networks involving campaign teams, neighborhood heads (RT/RW), religious leaders, and families. These patterns demonstrate that money politics operates through a combination of transactional relationships, relational closeness, and local institutional structures. Voter acceptance is not only rooted in short-term economic calculations but is also influenced by permissive social norms, transactional electoral traditions, weak oversight, and competitive incentives within an open proportional system. This study shows that money politics persists because it is integrated into social networks and institutional structures, not solely because of economic vulnerability, thus providing an empirical basis for revisiting the relationship between welfare, patronage practices, and electoral behavior in Indonesia.
POLITICAL CAPITAL, RATIONAL STRATEGY, AND PARTY DOMINANCE IN THE SELECTION OF THE VICE GOVERNOR OF THE RIAU ISLANDS Euis Ammelia; Intan Idiani; Dian Mustika Intan
Politik Indonesia: Indonesian Political Science Review Vol. 9 No. 2 (2024): General Issue
Publisher : Universitas Negeri Semarang

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15294/jpi.v9i2.48988

Abstract

This article discusses the role of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) in the election of Isdianto as Deputy Governor of the Riau Islands in 2017. Using a qualitative approach, the study analyzes political dynamics, party interactions, and institutional mechanisms within the Regional People's Representative Council (DPRD). The findings suggest that Isdianto's election was shaped by rational political calculations and transactional exchanges between actors, particularly amidst the instability of the governing coalition. PDIP leveraged its political networks and institutional influence to facilitate Isdianto's nomination and appointment. The study also identifies procedural irregularities, including the emergence of a single candidate and acclamation voting, which contravened existing regulations. These dynamics demonstrate symptoms of cartel politics and highlight weaknesses in Pasal 176 of UU No. 10/2016. The study concludes that rational choice theory better explains observed political behavior, emphasizing power, interests, and resource exchange as key determinants. This study contributes to debates on local democracy, party system institutionalization, and political recruitment in Indonesia.
ENHANCING DEMOCRATIC QUALITY IN INDONESIA’S REGIONAL ELECTIONS: GOVERNANCE DYNAMICS AND TECHNOLOGICAL PATHWAYS Ferdian Ahya Al Putra; Badriyatus Salma; Febrianti Nur Qothimah
Politik Indonesia: Indonesian Political Science Review Vol. 10 No. 3 (2025): General Issues
Publisher : Universitas Negeri Semarang

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15294/jpi.v10i3.44400

Abstract

The discourse on regional head elections through the Regional People's Representative Council (DPRD) has sparked both pros and cons among the public. The large budget and money politics are the reasons for this discourse. This has led some to question the rationality of the plan, as it is considered capable of minimizing public involvement and weakening democracy. However, various strategies exist to create more efficient regional elections. This study aims to discuss efforts to enhance the quality of democracy by creating more efficient regional head elections. The novelty of this research lies in the re-emergence of the discourse on indirect regional elections. Accordingly, this study seeks to identify which aspects of election budgeting contribute to inefficiency and to propose possible strategies to address these issues. This includes discussing the potential of combining judicial review mechanisms amid the risks associated with the adoption of technology in elections. The findings show that the main problems in regional elections—such as high political costs, money politics, oligarchic dominance, and weak transparency—are structural and institutional rather than caused solely by the direct election system. Therefore, improving local democracy should focus on reforming candidate recruitment, strengthening political funding accountability, and enhancing public oversight and political education. In addition, the integration of election technology has the potential to improve efficiency and transparency if supported by institutional readiness and efforts to reduce the digital divide.

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