Indonesia to Push Ahead with 2020 Regional Elections Despite Covid-19 Challenges

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com – Indonesia is pushing ahead with regional elections between September and December this year despite the challenges posed by the spread of the coronavirus, according to the Indonesian General Election Commission (KPU). 

“If any candidate tested positive for Covid-19 [during the regional elections], it will not annul their standing in the race. However, they would have to undergo self-isolation or be under tight health protocols until they are cured,” said KPU chairman Arief Budiman.

“The election’s regulations have determined the possible circumstances that the regional candidates may encounter" as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, he said. "These include the possibility of death [from Covid-19] during or after voting day, or before they are sworn in after winning the elections.”

However, Arief assured that precautions have been put in place to prevent the likelihood of the nominees falling ill from the coronavirus on the campaign trail.

Also read: Public Confidence in Democracy Takes A Hit From Covid-19 in Indonesia

“Candidates for the regional elections are required to participate in swab tests, as recommended by the Indonesian Doctors Association [IDI].” 

“The procedure is also part of the KPU’s commitment to ensure that the candidates are free of Covid-19 before they register to participate in the regional elections,” he added.

Nonetheless, the KPU is aware of how Covid-19 looms over the public’s psyche before the elections.

“Candidates usually use T-shirts and hats as campaign props during elections,” said Arief.

“But this year, the KPU will allow candidates to put their likeness and name on items like masks, hand sanitizers and face shields as election merchandise based on suggestions from the Home Ministry and the House Commission II [on Home Affairs].”

Shutterstock The KPU will permit hand sanitizers to be used as election souvenirs and props in Indonesias upcoming regional elections, along with face masks and face shields

Also read: West Java Governor to Roll Up Sleeve for Covid-19 Vaccine Trial

The government institutions agreed that the fight against Covid-19 should be the theme for the campaign.

“The candidates are expected to convey their strategy to counter Covid-19,” said Arief.

“Their competing visions will not only establish their viability [for public office], it will hopefully be used as a force to slow the transmission of Covid-19.”

The post-coronavirus changes will also be extended to the number of people turning out for their candidates, with the KPU suggesting about 100 persons stumping for their candidate on the campaign trail.