Pasal 6A Ayat (3) UUD 1945: Sebuah Refleksi atas Perkembangan Demokrasi di Indonesia

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The 1945 Constitution of Indonesia, a cornerstone of the nation's legal framework, has undergone significant amendments over the years, reflecting the evolving political landscape and societal aspirations. Among these amendments, Pasal 6A Ayat (3) stands out as a pivotal addition, introducing the concept of a "presidential threshold" for presidential elections. This provision has sparked considerable debate and scrutiny, with proponents arguing for its role in ensuring political stability and opponents highlighting its potential to stifle democratic participation. This article delves into the intricacies of Pasal 6A Ayat (3), examining its historical context, its impact on the Indonesian political system, and its implications for the future of democracy in the country. #### The Genesis of Pasal 6A Ayat (3) The introduction of Pasal 6A Ayat (3) in 2004 was a direct consequence of the political turmoil that followed the fall of the Suharto regime in 1998. The transition to a more democratic system was marked by a series of challenges, including the emergence of numerous political parties and the fragmentation of the political landscape. In an attempt to address these challenges and ensure a stable government, the amendment was introduced, establishing a minimum percentage of votes required for a presidential candidate to be eligible for the second round of the election. This threshold, initially set at 20%, was later reduced to 25% in 2014. #### The Impact of the Presidential Threshold The implementation of the presidential threshold has had a profound impact on the Indonesian political system. It has effectively reduced the number of presidential candidates, leading to a more concentrated political landscape. This, in turn, has facilitated the formation of coalitions between political parties, often resulting in the emergence of a dominant political force. While proponents argue that this fosters stability and prevents the rise of fragmented governments, critics contend that it limits the diversity of political representation and can lead to the dominance of a few powerful figures. #### The Debate Surrounding the Presidential Threshold The debate surrounding Pasal 6A Ayat (3) has been intense and multifaceted. Supporters of the presidential threshold argue that it is essential for ensuring political stability and preventing the emergence of weak and ineffective governments. They contend that a high threshold discourages the proliferation of fringe candidates and promotes the formation of strong coalitions, leading to a more cohesive and effective government. Conversely, opponents argue that the threshold undermines democratic principles by limiting the choices available to voters and potentially excluding viable candidates from the race. They argue that it creates an uneven playing field, favoring established political parties and hindering the emergence of new voices. #### The Future of the Presidential Threshold The future of Pasal 6A Ayat (3) remains uncertain. While it has been instrumental in shaping the Indonesian political landscape, its continued relevance and impact are subject to ongoing debate. Some argue that the threshold should be maintained to ensure political stability, while others advocate for its abolition or reduction to promote greater democratic participation. The outcome of this debate will have significant implications for the future of democracy in Indonesia, shaping the dynamics of political competition and the level of representation in the country's political system. The introduction of Pasal 6A Ayat (3) has undoubtedly had a significant impact on the Indonesian political system. While it has contributed to political stability and the formation of strong coalitions, it has also raised concerns about its potential to limit democratic participation and create an uneven playing field. The debate surrounding the presidential threshold is likely to continue, with its future trajectory shaping the contours of Indonesian democracy in the years to come.