Konsep Kedaulatan dan Pembagian Kekuasaan dalam Negara RIS

The Republic of the United States of Indonesia (RIS), a short-lived federation established in 1949, presented a unique experiment in governance, attempting to balance the concept of sovereignty with the practicalities of power distribution. This essay delves into the intricate relationship between the concept of sovereignty and the division of power within the RIS, exploring the challenges and complexities that ultimately led to its demise.

The Concept of Sovereignty in the RIS

The RIS was founded on the principle of federalism, where constituent states, each possessing a degree of autonomy, were united under a central government. This structure inherently raised questions about the nature of sovereignty. While the central government held ultimate authority over matters of foreign policy, defense, and currency, the constituent states retained significant control over their internal affairs. This division of power, while intended to foster unity and accommodate regional differences, also created ambiguities regarding the locus of sovereignty.

The Division of Power in the RIS

The RIS constitution established a complex system of power sharing between the central government and the constituent states. The central government, headed by a president, was responsible for national-level matters, while the constituent states had their own elected governments and legislatures. This division of power was further complicated by the existence of a bicameral parliament, with the upper house representing the constituent states and the lower house representing the people. This intricate system aimed to balance the interests of both the central government and the constituent states, but it also created a potential for conflict and gridlock.

Challenges to the Concept of Sovereignty and Power Sharing

The RIS faced numerous challenges in reconciling the concept of sovereignty with the practicalities of power sharing. The constituent states, particularly those with strong regional identities, often resisted the authority of the central government. This resistance was fueled by concerns about the central government's ability to effectively represent the diverse interests of the nation. Moreover, the complex system of power sharing created bureaucratic inefficiencies and hindered the government's ability to respond effectively to national challenges.

The Demise of the RIS

The inherent tensions between the concept of sovereignty and the division of power ultimately contributed to the demise of the RIS. The central government struggled to assert its authority, while the constituent states increasingly sought greater autonomy. This centrifugal force, coupled with internal political instability and economic challenges, led to the collapse of the federation in 1950.

The RIS experiment, while short-lived, provided valuable insights into the complexities of federalism and the challenges of reconciling the concept of sovereignty with the practicalities of power sharing. The failure of the RIS highlights the importance of finding a balance between unity and diversity, and the need for a strong central government capable of effectively representing the interests of all its constituent parts.