KUALA LUMPUR – Indonesia’s largest political party will push for a parliamentary investigation over apparent national election violations even though it has yet to furnish evidence to support such claims.
The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP), whose presidential candidate Ganjar Pranowo came in last, said it will file a case with the Constitutional Court over claims of power abuse.
So far, PDIP secretary-general Hasto Kristiyanto has not provided any specifics or evidence to support the claims.
“If we do not do this comprehensive correction, then what’s the point of having an election in the future?” he said, adding it is not meant to impeach President Joko Widodo.
The presidential palace did not immediately respond to Reuters after being asked for comments on the allegations or the probe.
To push for a parliamentary investigation, PDIP will need the support of other parties as it has to garner the backing of 25 lawmakers and more than one party.
Although the Constitutional Court handles election disputes, the Parliament has the power to investigate government policies and review the conduct of public officials, including the president.
Before polling day, Jokowi-backed candidate Prabowo Subianto became eligible to run – with running mate Gibran Rakabuming Raka, who is also Jokowi’s eldest son – after a last-minute ruling by the Constitutional Court.
Jokowi’s brother-in-law, Anwar Usman, headed the Constitutional Court until he was removed last November. He remains a judge.
Prabowo swept the general election with nearly almost 60% of the votes, despite claims of meddling. – February 26, 2024