Appreciating President Jokowi’s Leadership Proven to Create an Inclusive Democratic Climate
By: Galang Faizan Akbar
The leadership of President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) for two terms has brought significant changes in Indonesia’s political and democratic life. Through various policies and strategic steps, the Head of State has succeeded in creating a more inclusive democratic climate, where community participation from various groups is increasingly strong and actively involved in the decision-making process.
Since the beginning of his term, the seventh President of the Republic of Indonesia has shown a great commitment to strengthening democracy by opening up the widest possible space for participation. Under his leadership, the government has actively involved civil society, non-governmental organizations, and the younger generation in formulating public policies. This proves that the man born in Surakarta prioritizes public participation as the key to creating more responsive and inclusive policies.
President Jokowi also strengthened the role of the media as an important pillar of democracy. Freedom of the press is increasingly guaranteed, and various media, both print and digital, are given the freedom to convey criticism and suggestions to the government.
The Head of State who has been in office since 2014 has consistently emphasized that constructive criticism is an important foundation in improving government performance. This step has succeeded in creating a more open political atmosphere, where people can voice their aspirations without fear.
In the era of the leadership of the man born in 1961, strengthening digital democracy has also become a highlight. Digital technology is used as a means to increase public participation, especially among the younger generation.
Through online platforms, people can express their views, access information, and participate in public policy discussions more easily and quickly. This encourages broader engagement and creates a more inclusive democracy in the digital age.
In addition, the seventh President of the Republic of Indonesia also consistently encouraged the implementation of transparent and fair elections. Under his leadership, Indonesia successfully held two presidential elections and various regional head elections safely and orderly.
This proves that electoral democracy in Indonesia is increasingly mature and can be used as an example at the global level. The smooth running of the election is an important indicator that democracy in Indonesia is developing healthily under Jokowi’s leadership.
In terms of political representation, President Jokowi also plays an important role in strengthening the participation of minority groups and women in politics. Affirmative action policies promoted by the government pave the way for greater representation of women and marginalized groups in strategic positions, both in central and regional governments. This step not only increases the inclusiveness of democracy, but also demonstrates Jokowi’s commitment to the principles of equality and social justice.
The Head of State also succeeded in creating political stability amidst the nation’s complex plurality. At a time when Indonesia was facing the challenge of political polarization, the first national leader who was previously a regional head and not from the political or military elite chose a dialogical and inclusive approach to ease tensions.
His government focuses on resolving issues through deliberation and consensus, involving various parties in the conflict resolution process. This strengthens social cohesion and maintains national unity amidst the political dynamics that occur.
On the other hand, the man born on June 21 managed to maintain a balance between democracy and economic development. Although focused on accelerating infrastructure development and people’s welfare, President Joko Widodo did not ignore the importance of political freedom.
The government, through the Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture (Menko PMK), Muhadjir Effendy, continues to strive to accommodate the important role of community organizations (ormas) in determining the course of democracy in Indonesia.
The role of mass organizations that do have a large base, clearly has high potential to increasingly realize an inclusive and more effective democracy. Because they help develop an inclusive mindset in society.
Meanwhile, Minister of Foreign Affairs (Menlu) Retno Marsudi assessed that democracy is successful when it has an inclusive nature and everyone has the opportunity to contribute to the process.
All stakeholders must play a role in providing their perspectives, so that it can be realized comprehensively and inclusive democracy can be realized.
Since the era of President Jokowi’s leadership, he has ensured that ongoing development remains in line with the principles of democracy and openness, where the community plays an active role in monitoring and criticizing the progress of development.
In the last 10 years, President Jokowi’s leadership has proven to create a more inclusive and dynamic democratic climate. Increased public participation, guaranteed press freedom, and a commitment to pluralism are strong indicators that Indonesian democracy continues to grow under his leadership.
The seventh President of the Republic of Indonesia has succeeded in maintaining a balance between development and democracy, creating an open and participatory political atmosphere. This success provides a solid foundation for Indonesia to continue to advance as a democratic country that is just and competitive in the global arena.
*) Contributor Persada Institute
