The Center for the Study of Democracy, the Constitution, and Human Rights (PANDEKHA) at the Faculty of Law, Gadjah Mada University, in collaboration with the Association for Elections and Democracy (Perludem), held an academic discussion on trends in disputes over the results of regional head elections (Pilkada). The discussion on Monday (December 2, 2024) featured experts and practitioners with deep experience in constitutional law and elections, including those accustomed to appearing before the Constitutional Court (MK).
The session opened with a presentation by Khairunisa Nur Agustyati, Executive Director of Perludem, who discussed Perludem’s monitoring report on the finalization of the results of the 2024 Presidential and Legislative Elections. Khairunisa explained that the various issues that arose during that process serve as important lessons for anticipating similar challenges in the finalization of regional election results.
Yance Arizona, Chair of PANDEKHA at the Faculty of Law, UGM, then presented preliminary research findings on trends in the resolution of regional election disputes. Based on an analysis of 83 rulings on regional election disputes (PHPKADA) from 2008 to 2021, Yance identified the various legal grounds and arguments that frequently arise in these proceedings.
In addition, this discussion featured two experienced legal practitioners at the Constitutional Court— Donal Fariz and Ali Nurdin—who shared practical insights into the dynamics of resolving disputes related to regional head elections. The perspectives offered by these two practitioners highlighted both the challenges and opportunities involved in creating a more effective and fair process for resolving regional election disputes.
Overall, this discussion aims to promote the fair and legally certain resolution of disputes over regional election results at the Constitutional Court. This aligns with efforts to support the achievement of Goal 16 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), namely peace, justice, and strong institutions.
Reporter: Mochamad Adli Wafi (PANDEKHA)
