Protests in Indonesia Halt Election Reform Changes

August 22 (UPI) — Indonesian lawmakers have postponed a crucial decision regarding proposed changes to election rules following mass protests in Jakarta. Tens of thousands of demonstrators gathered outside the House of Representatives, chanting and burning tires in response to the government's attempt to override a constitutional court ruling that would have facilitated opposition parties' participation in the upcoming regional elections scheduled for November. The protests prompted the deployment of nearly 3,000 police officers to maintain order. The controversial legislation aimed to lower the threshold for parties to nominate candidates for regional assemblies from 20% to between 6.5% and 10% of the popular vote. This change would allow smaller parties to nominate candidates independently, potentially increasing competition in the elections. However, the ruling coalition led by President Joko Widodo sought to limit these benefits to parties without seats in local legislatures, effectively ensuring that many incumbents would likely remain unchallenged in their positions. The session intended to finalize the revisions to the Regional Elections Law was abruptly postponed due to a lack of quorum. House Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad did not provide a timeline for when the session would reconvene, emphasizing adherence to procedural protocols. Critics of the proposed changes have expressed concerns that they undermine democratic processes, with allegations that Widodo is attempting to extend his influence through his chosen successor, Prabowo Subianto. The political landscape remains tense as opposition figures, including former Jakarta governor Anies Baswedan, face restrictions that could prevent them from running in the upcoming elections, raising questions about the future of democracy in Indonesia.