Results of the I National Congress, PDIP Supports Direct Elections Through the e-Voting Mechanism

JAKARTA - The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) has firmly stated its stance regarding the regional head election (Pilkada) controversy. The party founded by Megawati Soekarnoputri emphasized the importance of regional heads being directly elected by the people.

This attitude was expressed in the External Recommendation of the I PDIP National Conference which was read by the Chairman of the PDIP DPD Aceh, Jamaluddin Idham, at the Beach City International Stadium (BCIS), Jakarta, Monday, January 12.

"The first National Congress of the Party emphasizes the importance of safeguarding the sovereignty of the people to determine their leaders through the implementation of direct elections to strengthen the legitimacy and certainty of a fixed five-year term," said Jamaluddin at the first PDIP National Congress.

Instead of being chosen by the DPRD, PDIP recommends transforming the voting system and strengthening the integrity of the organizer. So, the quality of democracy can continue to be maintained.

"The first National Congress of the Party encourages the implementation of low-cost elections, including implementing e-voting, enforcing laws for electoral violations such as money politics, and preventing the financing of candidate recommendations or political dowry," said Jamaluddin.

Apart from the issue of financing, the points of recommendation also emphasize the importance of limiting campaign costs and the professionalism of election organizers. Jamaluddin said that a clean pilkada system would produce leaders who were truly dedicated to the welfare of the people, not for capital supporters.

"Every stage of the election must ensure that sovereignty is in the hands of the people, not in the hands of capital power. With strict enforcement of the law against money politics, we maintain the integrity of our democracy," he said.

As previously reported, PDIP carried the theme 'Satyam Eva Jayate' with the sub-theme 'There I Stand, For Eternity' in the National Congress which was held from Saturday to Monday, January 10-12.

Meanwhile, Satyam Eva Jayate is a Sanskrit slogan which means "Truth will win".

The sub-theme "Di Sanalah Aku Berdiri untuk Selama-lamanya" was taken by quoting the Indonesian Raya song.

PDIP Secretary General Hasto Kristiyanto said his party's National Congress was attended by PDIP managers at the central and regional levels, represented by the chairman, secretary, and treasurer.

"This national congress will discuss political attitudes, including the party's answers to various geopolitical issues, ecological crises, corruption, economic issues, law enforcement, to the party's internal programs and the party's responsibility to the people," he said in a press statement, Friday, January 9.