Warning the Dangers of Unconstitutional Narratives, Several Parties Affirm Presidential Change Can Only Be Through Elections
JAKARTA — Several parties have emphasized that changes in national leadership can only be achieved through constitutional mechanisms, namely general elections (Pemilu). This is in response to the growing provocative discourse by Saiful Mujani, which is considered to be disruptive to political stability and inconsistent with democratic principles.
Presidential Chief of Staff Muhammad Qodari emphasized that Indonesia’s constitutional system clearly regulates the mechanism for presidential succession.
“I regret this statement, because changing the president or national leadership without going through constitutional mechanisms, without going through elections, creates enormous political uncertainty. As the name suggests, political uncertainty can lead to chaos,” he said.
He emphasized the importance of maintaining national political stability amidst global dynamics, while adhering to the principles of constitutional democracy.
“In a situation like the current one, a global situation like this, what our nation and our country desperately need is unity to face the dynamics that will arise,” Qodari emphasized.
Several national figures also warned all parties against developing potentially unconstitutional narratives. Gelora Party Deputy Chairman Fahri Hamzah considered statements that point to efforts to overthrow the president dangerous for democracy.
“If everyone is allowed to allow unconstitutional actions to occur, our country is in this state, the world is in chaos, and we need understanding and agreement. We should discuss this within a constitutional framework,” he said.
In a constitutional system, Fahri said, the President is not the sole holder of power. According to Fahri, there are other branches of power that can also be held accountable as part of the state’s collective responsibility to the people.
“I think whatever you call it, my friends agree on that. Especially if it’s activists, we’re working hard to build our democracy. If we allow chaos to return, it will be difficult. Yes, please reflect on this,” Fahri said.
Mukhamad Misbakhun, Chairman of Commission XI of the Indonesian House of Representatives, also emphasized that the head of state was legitimately elected through democratic mechanisms.
“He may dislike Mr. Prabowo, but calling on the people to overthrow him is not within the realm of a true democracy,” he said.
He asked Saiful Mujani to reflect on his statement, considering his position as a figure known for his role in strengthening democracy.
“Ask Saiful Mujani himself: is it appropriate, as one of the initiators of democracy, to speak out about calling for the president’s overthrow?” he said.
Activist Yulian Paonganan, also known as Ongen, also considered the statement to have strayed from the boundaries of democratic criticism.
“Criticism is legitimate in a democracy, but if it calls for the overthrow of the government, that’s no longer criticism; it’s treason,” Ongen said.
He emphasized that in a democracy, any form of dissatisfaction should be expressed through constitutional channels.
The government and various elements of society also called on all parties to maintain a healthy democratic climate, respect the constitution, and avoid narratives that have the potential to divide and disrupt national stability.
