Indonesia is deliberating potential changes to its presidential nomination process ahead of the 2029 general election, following a landmark ruling by the Constitutional Court. The court in January 2025 annulled the previous nomination threshold, which required a political party or coalition to secure at least 20% of parliamentary seats or 25% of the national vote in the previous legislative election to nominate a candidate, declaring it unconstitutional.
Lawmakers are now considering a new rule that would require candidates to obtain backing from at least two parliamentary factions. This proposal could significantly impact smaller parties and those without parliamentary representation, as Indonesia currently has eight parliamentary parties following the 2024 elections. Supporters argue that the measure would prevent an overwhelming number of presidential candidates, while critics warn it could marginalize smaller political groups and independent candidates.
NasDem Party chairman Surya Paloh has publicly endorsed the idea, suggesting that such a requirement would bring more stability to the nomination process. However, the proposal has sparked debate among other political figures and analysts who caution that it might restrict access to the presidential race.
The discussions also extend to the parliamentary threshold itself, with members of the ruling coalition proposing an increase from the current 4% to 5% for parties to secure seats in Parliament. This suggestion follows the Constitutional Court’s directive to review the threshold before the next election cycle.
These proposed changes remain under consideration, and no final decisions have been made regarding the rules for presidential nominations or the adjustments to parliamentary thresholds. As the debate continues, stakeholders are weighing the implications of these potential reforms on Indonesia’s political landscape.
