Direct Regional Elections and DPRD Dominance: Reform Agenda for Local Democracy
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Abstract
This article examines the relationship between direct regional elections and the dominance of Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) in Indonesia’s local governance structure. Drawing on a socio-legal and empirical approach, the study analyzes statutory frameworks, budget documents, and qualitative case studies from selected regions to assess how executive–legislative power relations shape democratic performance. The findings indicate that direct regional elections strengthen vertical accountability by granting regional heads strong electoral legitimacy and encouraging responsiveness to public demands. However, DPRD retains significant leverage through budget approval, regulatory authority, and oversight mechanisms, which often translate into political bargaining and policy delays. Party fragmentation and informal political networks further intensify legislative influence, limiting the effective implementation of electoral mandates. The study argues that preserving direct elections is essential for sustaining democratic legitimacy, yet institutional recalibration is necessary to prevent legislative dominance from undermining governance effectiveness. Reform priorities include clearer boundaries of legislative authority, enhanced transparency in budget deliberation, strengthened party institutionalization, and improved professional standards in legislative oversight. A balanced distribution of power between elected executives and representative bodies is crucial for advancing accountable and stable local democracy.
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