The competition between Kuncoro Jati and Andri Setya Nugraha for the position of Chair of Dema Justicia is becoming increasingly intense. With the campaign period drawing to a close, voting day is fast approaching. Students will cast their votes from 20–22 November 2017. Both candidates appeared in a public debate organized by the Student Election Commission (KPRM) at FH UGM on 16 November. Moderated by Fadhilah Fildzah, the debate consisted of three sessions, with each candidate facing three faculty panelists: Sigid Riyanto, S.H., M.Si., a lecturer at the Department of Criminal Law; Nabiyla Risfa Izzati, S.H., LL.M. (Adv.), a lecturer at the Department of Civil Law; and Sartika Intaning Pradhani, S.H., M.H., a lecturer at the Department of Customary Law.
Andri Setya Nugraha, candidate number one, introduced his concept of “the reformist voice.” He argued that Dema Justicia should become a comprehensive student organization with a strong sense of social awareness grounded in intellectual capacity. In his campaign statement, Andri also addressed student demonstrations, which prompted a question from Kuncoro during the debate. Andri argued that student movements sometimes overlook the importance of advocacy.
Meanwhile, Kuncoro Jati, commonly known as Ikun, campaigned under the concept “closer, stronger.” Through his vision, he hopes Dema Justicia can become an autonomous movement organization dedicated to serving the public interest. Regarding student movements, Andri asked about the debate surrounding student political parties (parma) in the UGM Student General Election (Pemilwa). “We need to listen to what students want regarding parma and KM,” Ikun responded.
The determination of both candidates to demonstrate their leadership capabilities during the debate was matched by the sportsmanship of their respective campaign teams. The ability of voters to assess each candidate’s capabilities was also put to the test. The success of the entire election process now depends on voter participation and the votes cast. This is the primary purpose of the student election: to foster the spirit of democracy, in line with its tagline, “Speak Wisely, Let Democracy Resonate.”
Rep: parasurama dan aisyah
