Ganjar Pranowo asks parties to strengthen closeness with the public through responsive cadres

Former Central Java Governor Ganjar Pranowo has called on Indonesian political parties to enhance their public engagement by fostering cadres who are responsive to societal issues. Pranowo made these remarks in Surabaya, referencing a doctoral dissertation by political observer Pangi Syarwi Chaniago, which he believes offers valuable insights for parties, including PDI Perjuangan, to refine their strategies.

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So the dissertation becomes important, but at least for parties like us from PDI Perjuangan, it can be used as a reference tool for us to prepare ourselves better, to improve ourselves, that's good.

Pranowo attended the open dissertation defense at Airlangga University, noting the study's relevance for political parties. The dissertation, titled "A Study on Factors Influencing Split Ticket Voting in Simultaneous Elections in West Sumatra and East Nusa Tenggara," explored factors affecting split ticket voting. Pranowo drew parallels with the U.S. system, where separate choices for executive and legislative branches serve as checks and balances, but questioned its direct applicability in Indonesia, suggesting Indonesian voter behavior is often driven by dynamic political preferences.

He highlighted that Pangi's research indicated PDI Perjuangan maintains a relatively high level of public closeness. This finding presents a challenge for the party to sustain this connection through tangible actions. Pranowo stressed the importance of preparing both the public and party cadres to foster a stronger bond with the party and cultivate a robust party identity.

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So when we were given the opportunity to ask, I asked, isn't it in Indonesia that when we choose candidates, central, regional, legislative, executive, it's just because of taste. Today their taste is chosen, so they are chosen. Today their taste is not, so they are not. And that can be influenced by many factors.

Ganjar Pranowo further asserted that PDI Perjuangan cadres must consistently side with the people and abstain from corrupt practices to realize clean governance. He also underscored the necessity for swift responses from all party elements when the public faces urgent issues. Cadres, he stated, should not wait for orders but must be proactive and quick to address community problems.

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Cadres of PDI Perjuangan must always side with the people and stay away from corrupt practices if they want to realize clean governance.