Begal Party Phenomenon is Considered a Real Threat to Democracy

JAKARTA - Political observer Adi Prayitno reminded that the practice of the takeover of political parties by outsiders or party thugs is a serious threat to democracy.

Adi Prayitno made the statement at a National Seminar held by Pinter Hukum entitled 'Political Party Independence: Strengthening Internal Solidarity and Mitigating External Intervention' at the National Library, Jakarta, Saturday, March 28.

According to him, a healthy political party should be built on a meritocratic system and a clear kaderisasi. Instant recruitment that ignores internal processes should not happen.

"It is unhealthy if political parties, for whatever reason, recruit people who are unclear, then suddenly become general chairmen. This kind of phenomenon exists and has the potential to damage democracy within the party," Adi said at the event.

This practice is considered dangerous because it damages the internal order of political parties. Moreover, if the outside party does not have a track record in the party, they suddenly enter and take a strategic position.

According to him, party independence must be guarded from all forms of external intervention. Because, the strength of the party lies in a healthy recruitment system and sustainable kaderisasi.

"Political parties are not like 'rental cars' that can be used for election interests, then abandoned. If that happens, the party can be destroyed and lose its direction," he said.

Adi also reminded the practice of "extorting" parties was not just an internal issue, but had become a real threat to democracy more broadly.

"When there are parties outside the party who suddenly want to take control and seize the position of general chairman without the kaderization process, it is clear that it will damage democracy and damage the party. There are many examples, especially in the post-reformative political dynamics," he concluded.