Direct election without deputy candidates gains cross-faction debate
The proposal was prompted by tensions between regional heads and deputies, while lawmakers also examine replacement options if a head is unable to serve.
The idea of holding regional elections without deputy regional head candidates is starting to be discussed across factions in DPR. PAN Deputy Chairman Saleh Partaonan Daulay said the proposal is worth considering, but it needs a thorough review, including its impact on regional governance and the mechanism for replacing a regional head who is permanently unable to serve. At a Commission II DPR meeting with the Ministry of Home Affairs, Commission II member Muhammad Khozin first proposed that voters elect only the regional head, while the deputy would be appointed later. He said deputies often serve mainly as vote-getters in pilkada, but have few duties and limited authority once the administration is running. CNN Indonesia also noted Khozin said about 60 percent of regional head-deputy relations in the regions are not harmonious.