Challenges to Indonesia’s Party Cartel System – ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute

Indonesia is experiencing a complex political landscape marked by a potential consolidation of power under President Prabowo Subianto, alongside growing dissent from both established political factions and a new generation of voters.

Indonesia’s Political Cartel Faces Challenges

Recent political discussions have focused on the possibility of Indonesia operating under a political cartel, fueled by the formation of President Prabowo Subianto’s ‘Advance Indonesia Plus’ Coalition (KIM Plus) and discussions of it becoming a permanent coalition. Proposals within KIM Plus to eliminate direct elections for governors, bupatis, and mayors could further centralize power and increase reliance on coalition negotiations.

However, this trend is encountering resistance. Political initiatives challenging the current system include the formation of the Labour Party (Partai Buruh) and the People’s Movement Party, which supports Anies Baswedan. Additionally, opposition elements within the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P) have increased their activity, despite remaining a minority.

A potentially significant challenge to the established order comes from growing discontent among Gen-Z middle- and lower middle-class citizens. This demographic’s anger surfaced in late August 2025, resulting in the arrest of 705 individuals, most of whom are now facing trial. While the arrests haven’t triggered widespread unrest, dissent remains prevalent on various social media platforms.

Seminar Details

The ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute is hosting a seminar to discuss these developments. Dr. Maxwell Lane, a Visiting Senior Fellow at ISEAS, and Professor Leo Suryadinata, also a Visiting Senior Fellow at ISEAS and Professor (Adjunct) at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, Nanyang Technological University, will be the speakers.

The event will be held in a hybrid format at ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute. Those attending in person can register via the ISEAS mobile app, available on iOS and Android. Virtual attendance is also possible through a Zoom webinar; registration for the webinar is available here.

Participants are encouraged to submit questions via the Q&A function during the webinar, including their name and affiliation.