On August 23, 2024, students in Bali, organized by Cipayung Plus Bali, took to the streets demanding adherence to Constitutional Court (MK) decisions regarding regional elections, known as Pilkada. The protest, held at the Bali Provincial Regional House of Representatives and later at the Bali Provincial General Election Commission (KPU), was a response to concerns about the integrity of the electoral process in Indonesia.
Core Demands
The students called for the cancellation of all discussions on the Pilkada Bill, emphasizing the importance of respecting MK decisions No. 60/PUU-XXII/2004 and No. 70/PUU-XXII/2024. These rulings are seen as critical in maintaining a fair and transparent electoral process. They urged the KPU to adhere strictly to the constitution and binding regulations, ensuring electoral credibility.
Independence and Integrity
The protesters also stressed the necessity for the Constitutional Court to remain independent, free from political propaganda, and to uphold its decisions without compromise. The students believe that safeguarding the independence of the MK is crucial for upholding democratic values in Indonesia.
Presidential Intervention and Institutional Independence
The students called on President Joko Widodo to issue a Presidential Instruction (Inpres) to maintain democratic stability. They also demanded that the President refrain from interfering with state institutions like the KPU, DPR RI, Bawaslu, DKPP, MA, and MK, stressing the importance of institutional independence in preserving electoral integrity.
Broader National Concerns
This protest reflects a wider national unease about the potential manipulation of Indonesia’s democratic process. The students’ demands echo the broader calls for maintaining the integrity of the electoral process and the independence of key democratic institutions.
Impact and Public Response
The protest garnered significant public attention and media coverage, highlighting the growing concern over electoral integrity in Indonesia. The students’ message resonated widely, emphasizing the critical need for transparency and adherence to constitutional principles in the upcoming elections.
Final Thoughts
The Bali student protest underscores the critical role of youth activism in safeguarding democracy. If the government addresses these concerns, it could lead to significant reforms in Indonesia’s electoral process, ensuring greater transparency and fairness in future elections.
