Peran Parlemen dalam Sistem Pemerintahan Parlementer: Studi Kasus Indonesia

The Indonesian parliamentary system, established 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 institutions and societal demands. This article delves into the crucial role of the Indonesian parliament in the country's parliamentary system, examining its powers, functions, and limitations, drawing upon the Indonesian experience as a case study.

The Legislative Power of the Parliament

The Indonesian parliament holds significant legislative power, playing a central role in shaping the country's laws. The DPR has the authority to initiate, debate, and approve legislation, including the annual budget. This power is enshrined in the Indonesian Constitution, which grants the parliament the right to scrutinize and amend government proposals. The parliament's legislative role is crucial in ensuring that laws reflect the will of the people and are aligned with the principles of democracy and good governance. The parliament's ability to amend government proposals allows for a more inclusive and representative law-making process, reflecting the diverse perspectives and interests within Indonesian society.

The Oversight Function of the Parliament

Beyond its legislative role, the Indonesian parliament also plays a vital oversight function, holding the government accountable for its actions. The DPR has the power to question ministers, conduct investigations, and even impeach the president. This oversight function is essential for ensuring transparency and accountability in government, preventing abuse of power, and promoting good governance. The parliament's ability to scrutinize government activities and hold officials accountable is a cornerstone of a healthy democracy, fostering public trust and confidence in the political system.

The Role of the Parliament in Policy Formulation

The Indonesian parliament is not merely a legislative body but also actively participates in policy formulation. The DPR engages in discussions with the government on various policy issues, providing input and shaping the direction of government policies. This collaborative approach ensures that policies are informed by diverse perspectives and reflect the needs and aspirations of the Indonesian people. The parliament's involvement in policy formulation strengthens the democratic process, ensuring that policies are not solely driven by the executive branch but also reflect the will of the people.

The Limitations of the Parliament

Despite its significant powers, the Indonesian parliament faces certain limitations in its ability to effectively fulfill its role. One key limitation is the dominance of political parties, which can influence the parliament's decision-making process. The influence of political parties can sometimes overshadow the parliament's role as a representative body, leading to decisions that prioritize party interests over the broader public good. Another limitation is the lack of public engagement and participation in the parliamentary process. While the parliament is designed to represent the people, the level of public engagement in parliamentary activities remains relatively low, hindering the parliament's ability to fully reflect the will of the people.

Conclusion

The Indonesian parliament plays a crucial role in the country's parliamentary system, wielding significant legislative, oversight, and policy-formulation powers. The parliament's ability to shape laws, hold the government accountable, and contribute to policy formulation is essential for ensuring a democratic and accountable government. However, the parliament also faces limitations, including the influence of political parties and the lack of public engagement, which can hinder its effectiveness. Addressing these limitations is crucial for strengthening the parliament's role and ensuring its ability to effectively represent the interests of the Indonesian people.