Megawati Considered Consistent in Fighting for Democracy – 2024-07-19 16:49:57

The General Chairperson of the PDIP Megawati Soekarnoputri (MI / Usman Iskandar)

FORMER 5th President of Indonesia Megawati Soekarnoputri is considered consistent in fighting for democratic and constitutional values. Secretary of the Setara Institute National Council Benny Susetyo, assessed that Megawati is identical to the symbol of reform, especially following the events of July 27, 1996 known as Kudatuli (Twenty-Seventh of July Riots).

“Which became a turning point in the struggle for democracy in Indonesia. Without Megawati, the mental revolution and reform might not have been realized,” Benny explained in Jakarta, Thursday (18/7).

In her childhood, Megawati grew up in a very political environment with her father Soekarno who was a central figure in independence and the first president of Indonesia. Megawati’s political education began early, as she witnessed firsthand how her father led the country during challenging times.

Megawati’s political journey began in the 1980s when she entered the world of politics by joining the Indonesian Democratic Party (PDI). Amidst the pressure of the New Order regime led by Soeharto, Megawati began to show her courage. In 1993, she was elected as the General Chairperson of PDI, replacing Soerjadi.

“His election as PDI General Chairman not only marks the revival of PDI, but also strengthens his position as leader of the opposition,” said Benny.

Benny explained that the peak of Megawati’s struggle occurred on the July 27, 1996 incident, known as Kudatuli. On that day, the PDI headquarters in Jakarta was stormed by a pro-government group that wanted to overthrow Megawati’s leadership.

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The attack caused a major riot and several people lost their lives. However, this incident also strengthened Megawati’s position as a symbol of resistance once morest the authoritarian Soeharto regime. The Kudatuli incident became an important turning point in the history of Indonesian reform.

“Megawati showed her determination and courage, not giving in to pressure and intimidation. Her courage inspired many people, especially students and activists, to continue fighting for democracy and reform,” he said.

After the fall of Suharto in 1998, Indonesia entered an era of reform. Megawati played a key role in this process. As Vice President under President Abdurrahman Wahid (Gus Dur), Megawati was involved in efforts to improve the political and legal systems in Indonesia.

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When Gus Dur was dismissed by the People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR) in 2001, Megawati was then inaugurated as the 5th President of Indonesia. As President, Megawati faced various major challenges, including economic and political crises. However, she managed to introduce several important reforms.

One of his most significant achievements was the separation of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the Indonesian National Police (Polri).

According to him, this step is important to strengthen civilian control over the military and prevent military interference in political affairs. Megawati also introduced direct presidential elections, which gave people the right to choose their president directly.

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“This is an important step in strengthening democracy in Indonesia. In addition, he also formed the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK), which is an important institution in efforts to eradicate corruption in Indonesia,” he added.

“Megawati often talks regarding the importance of mental revolution, a concept inherited from her father, Bung Karno. Mental revolution is regarding changing the mindset and mentality of society to become more independent, confident, and not easily colonized by foreign or corrupt internal powers. Megawati believes that mental revolution is the key to creating a sovereign society and a strong country,” he continued.

In her various speeches, Megawati always emphasized the importance of integrity, honesty, and morality in politics. She reminded that leaders must have the values ​​of virtue (arate) and moral responsibility.

“According to her, politics is not only regarding power, but also regarding serving the people and fighting for public welfare. Megawati is known as a figure who is consistent and loyal to the constitution, even though she has to go through a path of suffering,” he said once more.

“Her courage and determination are reflected in her speeches which often quote world figures and philosophical thoughts. Megawati is not only a politician, but also a philosopher who speaks the truth without covering it up. When power deviates from the constitution, Megawati firmly voices the truth, even though it is often unpleasant for those in power,” he stressed.

Megawati, he continued, taught that a healthy democracy must be based on a strong constitution. The constitution is the foundation that keeps power from deviating and stays on track. On various occasions, Megawati has always emphasized the importance of respecting and implementing the constitution consistently.

This is evident in his efforts to separate the Police from the TNI and hold direct presidential elections, steps that strengthen democracy and transparency in government.

One of the major challenges in maintaining democracy is the phenomenon of populism. Populism often uses anti-establishment and pro-people jargon to attract support.

However, populist programs are often unrealistic and only play with people’s hopes. This results in people becoming victims of unfulfilled promises.

“Megawati is aware of the dangers of populism and always emphasizes the importance of leaders who have virtue (arate) and moral responsibility. Political populism makes the poor become victims of manipulative political methods. Populist campaigns often exploit people’s emotions and dissatisfaction without offering real and sustainable solutions,” he said. (Z-8)