Constitutional Experts Join Movement for Electoral System Changes

RI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Joint Secretariat of the People's Voice Sovereignty Movement (GKSR) is advocating for a more inclusive and representative electoral system at a national seminar in South Jakarta on Tuesday, March 3, 2026.

The seminar addressed the parliamentary threshold (PT) and its effect on the people's voice. Several non-parliamentary parties and constitutional law figures attended the event.

GKSR Chairman Oesman Sapta emphasized that democracy must not ignore the legitimate voices of voters. He expressed belief that the PT has the potential to undermine the people's sovereignty.

A parliamentary threshold is the minimum percentage of nationwide votes that a political party must secure to qualify for seats in the legislature. The threshold is intended to reduce fragmentation and enhance political stability. In Indonesia, the threshold is currently 4 percent of valid national votes, and discussions are ongoing regarding potential increases.

"We are not an anti-constitutional movement. The eight non-parliamentary parties legitimately represent citizens. Democracy will collapse if too many voices are ignored," he asserted.

Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration, and Corrections Yusril Ihza Mahendra expressed belief that the parliamentary threshold is not absolutely necessary. According to Yuzril, political stability is not solely determined by the parliamentary threshold.

"Does simplification need to be implemented to stabilize politics? Not really. Let there be many parties; it will simplify itself," he said.

Former Chief Justice of the Constitutional Court Arief Hidayat said that legislators have the authority to determine the size of the PT. However, he emphasized that the principles of proportionality and popular sovereignty must be upheld.

"The House of Representatives (DPR) cannot determine the PT arbitrarily without consulting non-parliamentary parties. Let's realize substantive democracy," he said.

Perkumpulan untuk Pemilu dan Demokrasi or Association for Election and Democracy (Perludem) advisor Titi Anggraini expressed belief that the four percent PT threshold will invalidate millions of votes in the 2024 election. She advocates for a system design that remains effective while ensuring adequate representation.

Perludem is an organization founded by citizens who believe elections should produce a government that truly represents the people. "Four percent is unconstitutional and should not be maintained. It would be better to implement a faction threshold," she said.

GKSR expressed hope that legislators will create a stable and inclusive system. They emphasize that every vote must be counted and valued. (Misni Parjiati/Bambang MBKA)