By: Ramadhan Iskak )*
The leadership of the President of the Republic of Indonesia (RI) Joko Widodo (Jokowi) for two terms from 2014 to 2024 marks one of the important chapters in Indonesian political history. In this 10-year span, democratic life in Indonesia has experienced various dynamics that deserve to be appreciated.
Despite facing major challenges, such as the Covid-19 pandemic and increasing political polarization, the Head of State has been able to lead this country to maintain democratic values and present breakthroughs in governance.
The Coordinator of the Presidential Special Staff (Stafsus), Ari Dwipayana revealed the results of the latest survey regarding the performance of the government during the leadership era of President Jokowi with Vice President K.H. Ma’ruf Amin, which was able to achieve a public satisfaction level of up to 75.6 percent.
These results are as per surveys from credible institutions, including Litbang Kompas. So far, if there has been criticism of the Head of State, it has indeed been constructive input to further improve the performance of all areas of government.
The government is indeed very open to receiving criticism or support for the running of the government, because criticism itself is a common thing in a country that implements a democratic system like Indonesia.
In fact, the President and the government continue to receive very high appreciation and also full support and positive trust from the public. Through survey results, residents also consider that the government during President Jokowi’s leadership has succeeded in carrying out equitable development with a satisfaction level of 74.5 percent.
Not only that, but other appreciation also came from a number of rectors at various campuses in the country who considered the hard work of the Head of State during his leadership for 2 terms or the last 10 years in Indonesia to be very good, allowing this nation to go through various difficult situations.
The Chancellor of the Muhammadiyah University of Purwokerto (UMP), Jebul Suroso said that President Joko Widodo has done a lot for Indonesia. Because under his leadership, this nation has managed to go through many difficult times.
This is because Jokowi’s leadership is very decisive in taking a stance in the midst of difficult situations faced by the world. The legacy of President Jokowi also brought high appreciation because it was for the progress of the nation.
Likewise, the Chancellor of Darul Ulum Islamic Center Sudirman University (Undaris) Semarang, Hono Sejati also expressed his appreciation for President Joko Widodo’s leadership. According to him, this nation really needs a leader who is a statesman and full of innovation who can continue to unite the nation.
So far, democracy in Indonesia has continued to be upheld very highly, because it is a right for all citizens. So that all parties have the same obligation and responsibility to continue to oversee it.
Under President Jokowi’s leadership, strengthening democratic institutions, such as the General Election Commission (KPU) and the Election Supervisory Body (Bawaslu), has received special attention.
The Head of State ensures that these institutions remain independent and able to carry out their duties properly. The bureaucratic reforms carried out during his administration also contributed to the creation of more transparent and accountable governance.
In addition, the number 1 person in the Republic of Indonesia encourages decentralization and regional autonomy through various policies that strengthen the role of local governments. This allows people in the regions to participate more in political and government decision-making, creating a democracy that is more inclusive and responsive to local needs.
During President Jokowi’s leadership, press freedom in Indonesia remains intact despite challenges from the spread of disinformation and hoaxes, especially on social media. The Head of State often emphasizes the importance of press freedom as a pillar of democracy, although on the other hand, the government must take steps to combat the spread of false information that can divide the nation.
The use of social media as a tool for political participation has grown during Joko Widodo’s leadership. The government uses this platform to get closer to the people, while the public is increasingly active in voicing their opinions and political aspirations through social media. However, the emergence of provocative content and hoaxes is a challenge in itself in maintaining a healthy democracy.
During his two terms of leadership, President Jokowi has made a significant contribution to democratic life in Indonesia. Through peaceful elections, strengthening democratic institutions, maintaining press freedom, and strengthening public participation, the President has shown a strong commitment to maintaining democratic values.
Despite facing various challenges, democratic life in Indonesia over the past 10 years is proof that this nation is able to continue to develop and strengthen an inclusive and just political system.
Democracy in Indonesia during the leadership of President Joko Widodo is a reflection of the nation’s long journey in building a government based on people’s sovereignty, as well as a commitment to presenting a government that serves all levels of society.
)* The author is a Political Observer