Franklyn Rosetya Situmorang, a student from the Bachelor of Public Administration Program at Parahyangan Catholic University (UNPAR), contributed to research on political dynasties in Indonesia while undertaking an internship at Indonesia Corruption Watch (ICW). As part of the Regional Heads Tracking 2024 project, Franklyn participated in examining the backgrounds of candidates contesting Indonesia’s 2024 Regional Head Elections (Pilkada).
The research found that a significant number of regional head and deputy regional head candidates have familial ties to current or former political officeholders at both the executive and legislative levels. These family networks, commonly referred to as political dynasties, have become a recurring feature of local electoral politics in Indonesia.
One of the cases highlighted in the study is the political network in Banten Province, where several candidates are connected through family relationships with former Governor Ratu Atut Chosiyah. The research illustrates how political influence can be maintained across generations through relatives occupying strategic public offices or contesting regional elections, raising important questions about political competition and democratic representation.
From a public administration perspective, the study argues that political dynasties may pose challenges to good governance by increasing the risks of conflicts of interest, nepotism, and weakened public accountability. Concentrated political power within a limited number of families may also reduce opportunities for broader political participation and hinder the emergence of new leaders based on merit and competence.
The findings further emphasize the importance of transparency, accountability, and equal opportunities in democratic governance. Strengthening these principles is essential to ensuring that public institutions remain professional, inclusive, and responsive to the interests of all citizens rather than particular political groups.
Franklyn’s contribution through his internship at Indonesia Corruption Watch demonstrates how students of the Bachelor of Public Administration Program can actively engage in policy research and governance issues beyond the classroom. The experience reflects the program’s commitment to preparing students to critically analyze contemporary public administration challenges while contributing to evidence-based public policy discussions.
Bachelor of Public Administration Program
Faculty of Social and Political Sciences
Parahyangan Catholic University