Jakarta, CNN Indonesia —

Indrajaya, a member of the Commission II of the Indonesian House of Representatives representing the PKB Faction, has expressed support for the proposal to have regional heads elected by the Regional People’s Representative Council (DPRD), but only for the position of governor.

In contrast, he argued that the elections for regents and mayors should continue to be conducted directly by the electorate.

“President Prabowo has also suggested that regional leaders be elected by the DPRD. We back this idea, but we specifically propose that the gubernatorial elections be handled by the DPRD,” Indrajaya stated in a written statement on Wednesday (December 18).

Indrajaya further emphasized the need for a thorough evaluation of the regional elections, citing numerous issues that have arisen.

He pointed out that the 2024 regional elections, which are about to take place, have already attracted criticism for budget waste, the prevalence of money politics among candidates, and a declining voter turnout.

In his view, the idea of having the DPRD elect regional leaders does not undermine the political rights of the people. He argued that citizens still retain their voting rights in other elections, such as the legislative elections (Pileg) and the presidential elections (Pilpres).

Indrajaya also noted that governors essentially serve as extensions of the central government.

“Having the DPRD elect governors revitalizes representative democracy, where ultimate power rests with the people but is entrusted to their representatives. Therefore, it does not infringe upon the political rights of the citizens,” he explained.

Previously, President Prabowo Subianto raised the idea of having regional leaders elected by the DPRD during his speech at the 60th anniversary celebration of the Golkar Party in Sentul on Thursday (December 12) evening.

He argued that, similar to practices in other countries, this system is deemed more efficient and cost-effective.

“I’ve observed that our neighboring countries operate efficiently; in Malaysia, Singapore, and India, once they elect their DPRD members, that body is responsible for selecting the governor and the regents,” Prabowo stated.

He added that this proposal would help reduce the budget required for conducting regional elections.

Furthermore, he asserted that the funds allocated for the elections could be redirected to more pressing needs for the community.

(yoa/kid)

[Gambas:Video CNN]