Zulhas Proposes Regional Elections Be Decided by DPRD

A proposal has surfaced suggesting a return to a system where regional heads are elected by the Regional Representative Council (DPRD), rather than direct popular vote. This idea, if implemented, would represent a significant shift in Indonesia's electoral process for regional leadership.

The proposal was reportedly put forward by the Golkar Party. This is not the first time the party has voiced such a suggestion; it was previously raised during a national leadership meeting held on Saturday, December 20, 2025. The timing of this renewed discussion indicates a potential ongoing debate within political circles about the most effective method for selecting regional leaders.

Reintroducing DPRD-based elections for regional heads could have substantial implications for political dynamics and accountability at the local level. The debate centers on whether this system would lead to more stable governance or potentially concentrate power and reduce direct public influence.