Academic Society's Sharp Criticism Against Jokowi: Indonesia's History And Reflection On Democracy

A wave of criticism from professors and the academic community towards President Joko Widodo emerged ahead of the 2024 General Election. This phenomenon not only reflects current political dynamics, but also brings memories of the New Order era, where intellectuals dared to criticize President Soeharto before his downfall. In the current context, this criticism emerged at the end of Jokowi's leadership, challenging policies and raising critical questions regarding democracy.

Gadjah Mada University (UGM) professors voiced criticism through the Bulaksumur petition, demanding the president's return to the corridors of democracy. Similar criticism was also conveyed by other universities in Yogyakarta, such as the Muhammadiyah University of Yogyakarta (UMY) and the Indonesian Islamic University (UII).

Meanwhile, a professor at the University of Indonesia (UI) admitted that there was intimidation against those who voiced criticism, indicating that this criticism was not only a response to policy, but also a reflection of concerns about the health of democracy in Indonesia.

Hasanuddin University (Unhas) in Makassar, South Sulawesi, also took part by creating a petition to keep Jokowi in the corridor of democracy. Academics from Padjadjaran University (Unpad) and Andalas University (Unand) highlighted democracy ahead of the general election. The question is, does the government see it as constructive or as a political threat?

Criticism from academics reflects the need for transparent and accountable government. This criticism is multi-dimensional, covering aspects of law, democracy and government ethics, showing deep concern among academics regarding the condition of politics and democracy in Indonesia.

It should be remembered that in history, the new order also faced criticism from intellectuals who dared to voice their views. And we know that the fall of the New Order and Suharto was triggered by student and intellectual demonstrations.

President Jokowi gave a response that seemed to ignore this wave of criticism, raising the question of whether this criticism will spur improvement or actually worsen relations between the government and academics.

The wave of criticism from the academic community created a rich narrative of the history of intellectual resistance and challenges to the policies of the authorities. This criticism is a reminder that academic voices have an important role in maintaining the health of democracy in Indonesia. That democracy and politics in Indonesia may not be going well at the moment.