Analyst Predicts Political Parties Will Reject Proposal to Limit Term of Party Leaders

JAKARTA - Political communication expert from Esa Unggul University, M. Jamiluddin Ritonga, assesses that the majority of political parties in Indonesia will reject the proposal to limit the term of party chairmen (ketum). It is known that the proposal for a maximum two-term tenure for party chairmen was issued by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK). “It is reasonable if some parties respond negatively to the proposal for limiting the term of ketum. This is seen as part of external intervention and limiting the party’s sovereignty in determining its ketum,” Jamiluddin said when contacted on Friday (24/4/2026). “Therefore, the issue of limiting party chairmen to two terms will continue to spark pros and cons. For that reason, the drafters of the law must be able to distinguish between party interests and the interests of the nation and state in organising political parties in Indonesia,” Jamiluddin stated. In addition, he assesses that leadership regeneration in political parties can occur through limiting the term of the chairman to a maximum of two periods. “Limiting the term of party chairmen is seen as able to encourage parties to become more democratic. This step is seen as able to prevent power centralisation in one figure, accelerate leadership regeneration, and prevent political dynasties,” Jamiluddin said. Therefore, he views the KPK’s proposal as very good for eroding political dynasties that have taken root in Indonesia. “This limitation can also force parties to prepare new leaders. This can make parties more dynamic and not dependent on one figure alone,” Jamiluddin emphasised. KPK spokesperson Budi Prasetyo said the proposal emerged after receiving input and views from several party cadres regarding the KPK’s findings on the lack of an integrated cadre system standard. “Of course, because that study involved many elements, including friends from political parties who also provided suggestions and input in efforts to improve the political system in Indonesia,” Budi said at the Merah Putih Building, Jakarta, on Thursday (23/4/2026). Budi revealed that the political party cadre process is being studied by the KPK because it is still vulnerable to potential criminal acts of corruption. He also touched on the corruption case of inactive Ponorogo Regent Sugiri Sancoko, allegedly involving parties that became political financiers. “Thus, with this study, we hope that costs can be suppressed,” Budi stated.