Peran Parlemen dalam Sistem Pemerintahan Parlementer: Studi Kasus di Indonesia

The Indonesian parliamentary system, adopted in 1945, has undergone significant transformations throughout its history. The role of the parliament, known as the Dewan Perwakilan Rakyat (DPR), has evolved alongside these changes, reflecting the dynamic interplay between political forces and societal demands. This article delves into the intricate relationship between the parliament and the executive branch in Indonesia, examining the key functions and powers of the DPR within the framework of a parliamentary system.

The Legislative Power of the DPR

The DPR holds the primary legislative power in Indonesia, responsible for enacting laws that govern the nation. This power is enshrined in the Indonesian Constitution, which grants the parliament the authority to initiate, debate, and approve legislation. The process of lawmaking involves various stages, including the introduction of bills by the government or individual members of parliament, public hearings to gather input from stakeholders, and committee deliberations before final approval by the plenary session. The DPR's legislative power extends to a wide range of areas, including economic policy, social welfare, education, and national security.

The Oversight Function of the DPR

Beyond its legislative role, the DPR plays a crucial oversight function, ensuring the accountability of the executive branch. This oversight function is exercised through various mechanisms, including interpellation, questioning ministers on specific issues, and conducting investigations into alleged government misconduct. The DPR can also summon government officials to appear before parliamentary committees to provide explanations and justifications for their actions. This oversight function is essential for maintaining transparency and preventing abuse of power by the executive.

The Budgetary Power of the DPR

The DPR holds significant budgetary power, controlling the allocation of public funds. The government submits its annual budget proposal to the parliament for approval. The DPR scrutinizes the budget, proposing amendments and adjustments to ensure that public funds are used effectively and efficiently. This power allows the parliament to influence government spending priorities and ensure that public resources are allocated in accordance with national development goals.

The Role of the DPR in Selecting the President

In the Indonesian parliamentary system, the DPR plays a crucial role in selecting the president. Following a presidential election, the parliament holds a special session to elect the president from among the candidates who have secured a majority of votes in the election. This process ensures that the president enjoys the support of the majority in parliament, fostering a more stable and collaborative relationship between the executive and legislative branches.

The DPR's Role in Shaping Public Policy

The DPR's influence extends beyond its formal powers, shaping public policy through its ability to mobilize public opinion and advocate for specific policy agendas. Through parliamentary debates, public hearings, and media engagement, the DPR can raise awareness of critical issues and influence public discourse. This ability to shape public opinion allows the parliament to exert significant pressure on the government to address pressing societal concerns.

Conclusion

The Indonesian parliament, the DPR, plays a pivotal role in the country's parliamentary system, wielding significant legislative, oversight, and budgetary powers. Its ability to shape public policy and influence government decisions makes it a crucial institution in the Indonesian political landscape. The DPR's effectiveness in fulfilling its mandate depends on its ability to maintain its independence, engage in constructive dialogue with the executive branch, and represent the interests of the Indonesian people.