Nasdem Chair Blasts Court Decision on Elections

Surya Paloh accuses Constitutional Court of negligence, stealing sovereignty.

In a fiery speech, Nasdem Party Chairman Surya Paloh criticized the Constitutional Court’s (MK) ruling to keep national and regional elections separate, claiming the court acted negligently and essentially stole the people’s sovereignty. He pledged to fight the decision.

Key Accusation

Paloh made these remarks at the inauguration of the DPW, wing, and the NasDem Party in Palembang, South Sumatra. He stated that the Constitutional Court had committed theft of people’s sovereignty.

According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, at least 27 states have enacted laws that undermine free and fair elections since 2021 (NCSL 2024).

Call for Accountability

Expressing deep regret, Paloh questioned the rationale behind the Constitutional Court’s decision. He further wondered whether outside influences were at play, given that the court is filled by great people, great thinkers.

Nasdem dares to state, the Constitutional Court is very, very wrong. We even ask that the Constitutional Court be summoned and asked: Why is the decision made? Is there a deposit to play in this decision? We do not know, but the people are entitled to clarity

—Surya Paloh, Nasdem Party Chairman

Nasdem’s Pledge

Paloh emphasized the need to restore collective awareness of constitutional purity. He gave assurances that the NasDem Party would keep watch over the constitution, guaranteeing that future decisions related to Indonesian democracy align with justice, transparency, and people’s sovereignty.