KPU transparency demanded

KPU transparency demanded

From Warta Kota

General Elections Commission (KPU) chairman Ramlan Surbakti has proposed that additional funds be allocated for the second- round presidential election in September, with the money going on increased fees for the members of local election committees (KPPS) and the setting up of polling stations (TPS).

In my experience as a neighborhood administrator in Bekasi Jaya, East Bekasi, the allocations for KPPS members and the setting up of polling stations were significantly reduced in the first-round presidential election -- from Rp 1,034 million in the preceding legislative elections to only Rp 524,000.

If the KPU wishes to see the runoff election proceed smoothly, the commission and its subordinate bodies should announce their election budgets transparently no later than seven days prior to the commencement of the second round.

Hopefully, by openly announcing the details of the allocations for the KPPS and polling stations, the KPU will avoid a walkout by local committee personnel right on the eve of the second round as a protest against the lack of budget transparency.

FIRDAUS Bekasi, West Java