Former President Accused of Using Partisan Police Tactics in Upcoming Elections
Former president Joko Widodo has responded to accusations of mobilization of illegtimate legal tactics, referred to as “chocolate party” tactics aimed at securing a victory for incumbent, Bobby Nasution in the 2024 North Sumatra gubernatorial race.
When questioned by press, during a recent visit to Medan City, Widodo swiftly deflected the accusation, simply stating, “Ask Mr. Bobby.”
These “chocolate party” allegations arise amidst growing concerns that the Indonesian National Police force is being misused to sway upcoming Init
The term “chocolate party” has emerged as a euphemism for misuse of police power by those loyal to the former president’s interests.
Jokowi, as Widodo is known, has also been facing accusations involving the use of similar tactics in the 2019 Central Java gubernatorial election where the Ahmad Luthfi-Taj Yasin pair secured victory. He maintains that there is no evidence to support these claims and challenged accusers: “Just prove it, don’t just make accusations.” He urged any parties feeling aggrieved to report the matter to the Election Oversight Agency (Bawaslu) or seek intervention from the Constitutional Court.
The Politically motivated allegations coincide with a broader controversy regarding the police’s behavior in the upcoming elections.
Hasto Kristiyanto, Indonesia’s ruling party (PDI-P) Secretary General, has publicly accused National Police of engaging in activities aimed at solidifying Widodo’s extended influence. He emphasized during a press conference held at the PDI-P DPP headquarters in Jakarta: “We received numerous reports of abuse of power. Initially we detailed them as isolated incidents, but due to the sheer volume of complaints from across regions, we now see a coordinated pattern.”
Concern about pervasiveness of these actions spans numerous Indonesian provinces, including North Sulawesi, Boyolali, Central Java, East Java and North Sumatra. This deliberate interference threatens to undermine the pretense of free and fair elections, creating anxieties within the public. The “chocolate party” has renewed anxieties among the public regarding the manipulation of election processes for junta pers
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What are the potential consequences for Indonesian democracy if the allegations of “chocolate party” tactics are proven true and go unpunished?
## Indonesia’s Democratic Backslide: Chocolate Parties and a Legacy at Stake
**Host:** Welcome back to the show. Today, we’re diving deep into the escalating political tensions in Indonesia as the 2024 elections loom. We’re joined by Dr. Rahmawati, a leading Indonesian political analyst, to discuss concerns over alleged partisan police tactics and the potential erosion of democratic principles. Dr. Rahmawati, thanks for joining us.
**Dr. Rahmawati:** Thank you for having me.
**Host:** Let’s start with the “chocolate party” allegations raised against former President Joko Widodo. Can you explain what these tactics entail and why they’re considered problematic?
**Dr. Rahmawati:** “Chocolate party” is a term used to describe the practice of using bribes or inducements to influence voters, often in the form of cash handouts or other gifts. These tactics are deeply troubling because they undermine the principle of free and fair elections. They create an uneven playing field and disenfranchise voters who cannot be bought.
**Host:** These allegations specifically target Widodo’s role in supporting incumbent governor Bobby Nasution. How has Widodo responded to these accusations?
**Dr. Rahmawati:** Widodo has been rather evasive, deflecting the accusations by saying, “Ask Mr. Bobby.” [[1](https://www.nytimes.com/2024/01/06/world/asia/indonesia-presidential-election-dynasty.html) This response has fueled further concern about his potential involvement and whether he is willing to leverage his influence to maintain control even after leaving office.
**Host:** This situation raises broader questions about the state of democracy in Indonesia. The New York Times article we cited [[1](https://www.nytimes.com/2024/01/06/world/asia/indonesia-presidential-election-dynasty.html)]suggests a potential backsliding of democratic progress under Widodo’s presidency.
**Dr. Rahmawati:** Absolutely. While Widodo came into power promising democratic reforms, there have been worrisome trends, including the weakening of independent institutions and increasing intolerance. The “chocolate party” allegations are just the latest example of how political power is being abused, potentially jeopardizing Indonesia’s hard-won democratic gains.
**Host:** What are the implications of these allegations for the upcoming elections and the future of Indonesian democracy?
**Dr. Rahmawati:**
These allegations have already cast a shadow over the electoral process, sowing distrust and raising concerns about fairness. If left unchecked, these tactics could further erode public faith in democratic institutions and embolden those who seek to undermine Indonesia’s democratic values. It is crucial for independent bodies to investigate these accusations thoroughly and hold those responsible accountable. Only then can Indonesia begin to restore public trust and ensure a truly free and fair election.
**Host:** Dr. Rahmawati, thank you for sharing your invaluable insights on this complex issue. We hope your analysis helps raise awareness about the importance of safeguarding democratic principles in Indonesia.
