Electoral Conduct Under Scrutiny Following Money Distribution Video
A video has emerged allegedly showing an individual resembling religious figure Gus Miftah distributing money during an electoral campaign period, eliciting critique from communication expert Henri Subiakto.
Charlie Kennedy
- 2023-12-28
- Updated 11:31 PM ET
(NewsNibs) - Henri Subiakto, from Universitas Airlangga, weighed in on a video that surfaced during an electoral campaign showing a man suspected to be the religious figure Gus Miftah handing out money. The video raised eyebrows given its timing and potential implications for political campaigning. Subiakto pointed out that the act, which appeared benevolent, raised suspicions of being a tactic to garner votes for the presidential candidate Prabowo Subianto, whom the suspected figure seemingly supports.
Concerns Over Election Integrity
The distribution of money to the public during campaign periods could undermine the fairness of elections, according to Subiakto. Such actions, if associated with a candidate, might influence not only public perception but also survey results, potentially tipping the balance in favor of that candidate. Subiakto emphasized the potential risk such practices pose to the integrity of Indonesia's Constitutional Court (MK) and overall election quality, signaling a critical need for scrutiny and discussion regarding electoral ethics.
Speculation and Defense of the Act
Despite the controversial nature of the act depicted in the video, Subiakto speculated some individuals might defend this behavior as ethical, which presents a challenge to the principles of a dignified electoral process. In the video, the man who bears a resemblance to Gus Miftah, recognized for his long hair, head covering, and glasses, distributes money in the company of Prabowo Subianto's supporters, further complicating public perception regarding the incident.
The publicization of the video and the subsequent discussion by Henri Subiakto have prompted deeper contemplation on the role of ethics in political campaigns. The focus now turns to relevant authorities to consider the implications of such acts on Indonesia's electoral processes and to preserve the foundations of democratic integrity.
