Democracy Under Threat with a Single Candidate in 2024 Regional Elections
Political communication expert Antonius Benny Susetyo, known as Romo Benny, has issued a stark warning: Indonesian democracy is in danger if there is a single candidate in the upcoming regional elections on August 17th.
Susetyo emphasizes that regional elections should offer the people a genuine choice in selecting their preferred leader. He argues that this fundamental right is threatened by the potential for a single candidate scenario.
According to Susetyo, this phenomenon has far-reaching implications beyond simply electing a leader. He believes it undermines the quality of democracy and the government’s ability to effectively address local issues.
“The emergence of a single candidate is a dangerous signal, indicating the demise of democracy,” Susetyo stated. ”When there is only one option available, the entire election process becomes a mere formality, stripping citizens of their fundamental right to choose.”
The respected scholar further emphasized that a healthy democracy thrives on the presence of diverse candidates offering different ideas and solutions. He warned that a single candidate scenario fosters a leadership vacuum, where the elected individual often lacks genuine connection to the community’s needs and concerns.