Female Party Members Welcome Constitutional Court Ruling on Disqualification for Failing to Meet 30% Female Candidate Quota
The Constitutional Court (MK) ruled that political parties may be disqualified from DPR/DPRD elections if they fail to meet the minimum 30% female representation in legislative candidate lists. The ruling, outlined in MK Decision No. 128/PUU-XXIV/2026, partially granted a material review of Article 245 of the 2017 General Elections Act. From Golkar Party, Nurul Arifin agreed, stating it would strengthen female representation in legislative affairs, including decision-making. “I fully support the MK’s ruling on Article 245 of the General Elections Act as presented in Application No. 128/PUU-XXIV/2026,” Nurul Arifin told Kompas.com on Wednesday (27 May 2026). She added that election organisers must implement the ruling in the 2029 polls. “A firm stance is needed following this ruling. Kudos to the MK for emphasising consistent implementation of provisions regarding female candidates,” she said. Similarly, Lasmi Indaryani, Secretary-General of the Indonesian Democratic Party’s Women’s Wing, also supported the MK’s ruling on female representation. She welcomed the decision, stating it is a crucial step to enhance democratic quality and ensure equal political space. “The MK’s ruling underscores that women’s presence in politics is not merely about meeting administrative quotas,” she said. “Women bring perspectives, experiences, and more inclusive policies for society,” Lasmi added. The former DPR member (2019-2024) noted that the ruling further reinforces how political parties must provide genuine opportunities for female cadres to thrive.