Constitutional Court Rules on 30% Female Quota, Legislators Urge Parties to Seriously Implement Cadre Development
Member of the House of Representatives (DPR RI) from the Prosperous Justice Party (PKS) faction, Anis Byarwati, views the Constitutional Court’s (MK) ruling that reinforces disqualification sanctions for political parties violating the 30% female representation quota as a crucial step. This ruling should be seen as a catalyst for political parties to seriously and sustainably pursue female cadres development.
Anis stressed that the MK’s firm legal stance will compel political parties to change their perception of female politicians, no longer treating them merely as a legal requirement for elections.
“The MK’s ruling deserves respect as an effort to strengthen female representation in politics. I see its spirit as positive, pushing political parties not to treat the 30% female quota merely as an administrative requirement ahead of elections, but as part of a serious and sustained political cadre development process for women,” Anis stated in a press release on Wednesday, 27 May 2026.
Anis added that the success of a healthy democracy should not be measured solely by formal numerical targets on paper. More urgently needed are female figures with strong leadership competencies and high integrity in parliament.
“The democracy requires substantive representation—women with the capacity, integrity, and equal opportunity to contribute to public policy-making,” Anis explained.
She noted that if political parties can build a healthy internal ecosystem, meeting the 30% quota will no longer be seen as a burden. The MK ruling will then automatically transform into a tool for strengthening national democracy.
Regarding the severe sanction clause of disqualifying political parties in electoral districts (Dapil) that fail to meet the quota, Anis understands the constitutional judges’ rationale. A legal regulation indeed requires strong enforcement to avoid being overlooked.
“I understand the MK’s logic that a rule will be ineffective without clear consequences. So far, affirmative action for women has often been viewed as an administrative obligation that can be negotiated,” she said.
However, as a member of the DPR RI’s National Financial Accountability Body (BAKN), she cautioned that the implementation of sanctions must be proportionally monitored by election organisers. Administrative sanctions should not undermine voters’ constitutional rights in the regions.
“However, sanctions must also be viewed proportionally. The goal of increasing female representation should not result in reduced political choices for the public due to the disqualification of candidates in a particular electoral district,” Anis said.
Therefore, Anis stressed that the success of the MK ruling should not be measured by the number of political parties sanctioned or disqualified by the General Election Commission (KPU). True success lies in the political parties’ willingness to provide space, mentorship, and sufficient time for female cadres to grow into competitive and capable leaders.