Democratic Party Secretary-General: Parliamentary Threshold Important for Streamlining Parties
The Secretary-General of the Democratic Party, Herman Khaeron, responded to the proposal by the Chairman of NasDem, Surya Paloh, regarding the parliamentary threshold, suggesting it be set at 7%. Herman believes the threshold is important for streamlining the party system.
“I believe that the parliamentary threshold is important for simplifying the party system and maintaining government stability,” Herman told reporters on Wednesday (25 February 2026).
However, he said that each political party has its own opportunity and reasons for proposing a specific threshold. He added that his party is currently still reviewing the matter.
“The Democratic Party has not yet determined the ideal percentage for the threshold, especially considering the previous decision by the Constitutional Court, Number 116/PUU-XXI/2023, regarding the parliamentary threshold,” he said.
Herman stated that the article concerning the threshold in the General Election Law cannot be viewed in isolation, as it is necessary to consider the Constitutional Court’s decision, which affects the size of the threshold.
“We have not made a decision regarding this threshold, but we respect the decisions of other parties,” he said.
Previously, Surya Paloh stated that NasDem would remain consistent in pushing for the parliamentary threshold to be increased to 7%. Paloh believes that a 7% threshold would be much more effective.
“I think NasDem should remain consistent on this issue. Unless there are significant changes, we, NasDem, believe that transitioning from a multi-party system to a system of selected parties would be much more effective. This would help maintain government stability and also ensure the effective implementation of the benefits of the democracy we have,” said Surya Paloh at the NasDem Tower, Menteng, Central Jakarta, on Saturday (21 February).
Paloh then mentioned the large number of political parties. He questioned the purpose of democracy if it does not bring benefits.
“This should be a matter for reflection. We are too enthusiastic about the large number of political parties in the name of democracy itself. But on the other hand, what is the point of democracy if it does not bring benefits and consistency in achieving our shared goals of independence? Our capabilities, effectiveness, rationality, intellectuality, and morality must move much closer to our common goals,” he said.
(amw/dwr)