The Dynamics of Islamic Political Parties in Indonesia During the Reform Era: A Study of the Role, Strategy, and Behavior of Voters in Elections
Keywords:
Islamic Political Parties, Elections, Reform Era, Political Strategies, Electoral DynamicsAbstract
This study aims to comprehensively examine the dynamics of Islamic political parties in Indonesia during the Reform Era, focusing on the evolution of their roles, the transformation of their electoral strategies, the factors influencing fluctuations in voter support, as well as their challenges and relevance in the future. Using qualitative research methods with a literature review approach, this study analyzes how Islamic political parties have adapted to the changing political landscape after the New Order. The findings of this study indicate that the role of Islamic parties has expanded, not only as a channel for the aspirations of the people but also as active contributors to legislation, political education, and checks and balances mechanisms. Electoral support has experienced significant fluctuations influenced by the complex interaction of ideological factors (the solidity of Islamic narratives), sociological factors (traditional mass bases and young voters), and pragmatic factors (leadership, party performance, and logistics). Faced with these dynamics, Islamic parties have transformed their campaign strategies by adopting broader public issues, utilizing modern media, and forming political coalitions that tend to be pragmatic. Despite facing serious challenges such as maintaining voter loyalty, fragmentation, public perception, and leadership regeneration, Islamic political parties have maintained their relevance as an important component of Indonesian democracy, voicing the aspirations of significant segments of society and contributing to political plurality. This study contributes to the academic understanding of the adaptation and development of Islamic politics in the context of democratization in Indonesia.
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