During the webinar titled “Selection of Candidates for the KPU RI and Bawaslu RI (2022–2027 Term),” organized by the Ministry of Home Affairs’ Directorate General of Politics and General Government on October 11, 2021, Aditya Perdana—Executive Director of the Center for Political Studies at the University of Indonesia (Puskapol UI)—outlined the required competencies for prospective election administrators. He began his presentation by discussing the intricate and complex nature of the 2024 Simultaneous Elections. According to Perdana, the complexity of the 2024 Simultaneous Elections requires early attention, given that Indonesia’s economic, social, and political conditions are not yet ideal.
Aditya Perdana noted that the complexity of the 2024 Simultaneous Elections stems, in part, from the fact that election regulations have remained unchanged—a situation reflecting a political consensus to retain existing rules. Furthermore, economic uncertainty resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic presents a distinct challenge; although Indonesia is gradually recovering, there is no guarantee as to when economic growth will return to normal levels. This uncertainty complicates the 2024 Simultaneous Elections, the stages of which have already been underway since 2022. Aditya Perdana also highlighted issues regarding political polarization and identity politics as additional challenges that election organizers will face.
According to Aditya, the complexity and intricacy of the 2024 Simultaneous Elections stem partly from the fact that the general elections and regional head elections scheduled for 2024 are governed by different laws. This situation requires careful attention to ensure that the implementation of the 2024 Simultaneous Elections does not give rise to numerous issues. Furthermore, challenges also arise from limited resources and inadequate regulatory support. Aditya Perdana emphasizes the need for exceptional diligence and the introduction of innovations to ensure compliance with international standards.
In addition to highlighting the intricacies and complexities of the 2024 Simultaneous Elections, Aditya Perdana emphasized the importance of the principles governing election administration: independence, honesty, fairness, legal certainty, orderliness, transparency, proportionality, professionalism, accountability, effectiveness, and efficiency. Future commissioners of the KPU (General Elections Commission) and Bawaslu (Election Supervisory Body) must steadfastly uphold these eleven principles to safeguard the integrity of the elections. Beyond these operational principles, Aditya also advocates for at least 30% female representation among election administrators. Puskapol UI continues to support efforts to increase women’s representation within the KPU and Bawaslu, noting that current levels of female representation among election administrators still fall short of statutory mandates. Aditya stressed the need for specific frameworks and perspectives regarding female representation within the selection committees and among the election administrators ultimately appointed.
Regarding the criteria for members of the KPU RI and Bawaslu RI required for the upcoming election administration, Aditya Perdana categorizes the requirements into two areas: character and competence. The specific character traits and competencies required are as follows:
- Character: Independent, honest, fair, responsible, law-abiding and orderly, open, and creative in thinking qualities essential because the 2024 General Election is highly intricate and complex, presenting numerous challenges ahead.
- Competencies: Adequate electoral knowledge and skills; skilled and reliable managerial capabilities; collaboration, innovation, and rapid problem-solving.
In conclusion, Aditya hopes that the selection process for election organizers will result not merely in the appointment of new commissioners, but also in the delivery of an election with integrity in 2024. Therefore, commissioners are needed who possess the character and competence expected by the public rather than those selected simply to satisfy the agendas of political interests.
