Bappenas Encourages Independence of Political Parties through Increasing Financial Assistance and Accountable Management

Jakarta – The Ministry of National Development Planning/Bappenas held the "Creating Functional, Strong, and Independent Political Parties Through Adequate Financial Support with Accountable Governance" national seminar on Wednesday, 16/9. 

The event featured several prominent speakers, including Prof. Dr. Ramlan Surbakti from Universitas Airlangga, Prof. Dr. Valina Singka from Universitas Indonesia, Prof. Dr. Purwo Santoso from Universitas Gadjah Mada, and Prof. Dr. Syamsuddin Haris from the National Research and Innovation Agency. The seminar addressed critical issues, particularly the importance of sufficient financial support for political parties and the need for transparent and accountable governance.

"Financial assistance from the state to political parties remains very limited. The funds available are often insufficient to carry out essential activities such as political education and cadre development. This financial shortfall can lead political parties to rely on external donations, potentially creating conflicts of interest and compromising the party’s integrity and independence in fulfilling its role," explained Nuzula Anggeraini, Director of Politics and Communication at the Ministry of National Development Planning/Bappenas.

Political parties are key elements of a democratic system. However, Indonesian political parties currently face challenges such as reliance on external funding, financial governance issues, and a lack of transparency, all of which hinder their representative function. This seminar emphasized the need to increase state financial support, accompanied by accountable governance, to foster the independence and professionalism of political parties. The issue of financing and accountable management of political parties is a significant point in the recommendations for revising the Political Party Law, especially regarding increased funding allocations.

The seminar aimed to provide constructive input for political party funding policies and encourage the development of a healthier, more sustainable democracy in Indonesia. "State funding for political parties must not only be sufficient but also managed through transparent and accountable mechanisms, supporting political parties in fulfilling their role effectively within the democratic system," concluded Director Nuzula.