Local democracy lives

A month into the direct regional elections, both predictable and interesting results have been observed.

In spite of some shortcomings, which are only to be expected in such a comprehensive undertaking, the elections have proceeded smoothly. The titanic task of preparing for the polls was accomplished. Few clashes between rival groups have been reported, and, in most cases, the vote counting itself has been carried out transparently.

This goes to show that, in the absence of deliberate abuse, a thorough electoral system can ensure a free and fair election. Moreover, with additional improvements in the coming years, the quality of elections will improve.

These elections demonstrate that open political competition at the grass roots need not end in vain confrontation, and that the people in rural areas and villages are mature enough to embrace democracy.

This should come as no surprise. Local villagers are accustomed to electing their chiefs, as they have done so for decades. Those who questioned the effectiveness of such a utilitarian process simply had a political agenda.

Local elections are part and parcel of regional autonomy. They cement this nation's genuine desire never again to impose the political will of an elitist regime on less powerful people in the regions.

They breed accountability and bring democracy back to the people. For those regions that have succeeded in electing their chosen leader and fully implemented autonomy, their fate lies largely in their hands.

Some important trends can be detected in the wake of the first month of these elections.

The first is that major political parties and established organizations remain a force to be reckoned with. Their well- oiled political machinery gives them an advantage over independent candidates from smaller parties in reaching the masses, many of whom are still easily influenced by past voting habits and clever campaigning.

The second is that in spite of these parties' power, there are areas in which voters are making more rational choices.

The imminent election of Gamawan Fauzi as West Sumatra governor is a victory for those seeking good governance. Gamawan defeated candidates from the Golkar Party, and another who is affiliated with Muslim organization Muhammadiyah, which has a strong presence in the province.

Gamawan is a native West Sumatran who lives in the province -- compared to others who may be ethnic West Sumatrans but spend most of their time in Jakarta -- serving as regent of Solok. Last year he was presented with the Bung Hatta Anticorruption Award for his "clean" governance.

Gamawan's victory is the clearest sign that people want leaders who are not only capable but trustworthy.

The Solok regent's success is another indication of how future leaders will be born. To climb the political ladder, one does not necessarily have to stoop to dubious practices, or bow to the whims of Jakarta's elite.

The third trend apparent in these elections is the relatively "low" voter turnout compared to last year's legislative and presidential elections. While the numbers have not (as yet) raised alarm bells, this trend needs to be monitored.

Overall, voter turnout averaged around 70 percent, which, in established democracies, would be considered a triumph.

In Indonesia's case, the reason for the decline has not been determined. It could be a case of voter fatigue after last year's legislative and presidential elections. However, it could also be a consequence of voter apathy. Perhaps the voters felt no empathy with the candidates in question, or maybe they had lost faith in the process after hearing so many promises last year.

Whatever the case, it is a challenge that must be resolved.

Democracy will only survive if the process is made relevant to the people, a task that rests with people like Gamawan.