Let the Contest Begin: Celebrities, Artists, and Our Political Industry (Part-1)

By: Dr. Mohamad Ikhsan Modjo (Financial Economic Specialist’s BINUS International Program)

As we enter the general election of 2024, a surge of individuals is inflowing the political arena, relying merely on their popularity. This trend is evident in the increasing number of celebrities, artists, comedians, and commentators registering as national legislative candidates.

This occurrence is not something new. Also, there are no political norms prohibiting them from advancing. However, the proliferation of this phenomenon will undoubtedly have implications on the governance process and the policy products generated by the government in the next five years.

The definition of government here is not limited to the executive but also includes the legislative and judicial branches. The process and quality of interaction between these state institutions will determine the efficiency of decision-making and the effectiveness of policy implementation within a political period.

In this regard, the political process is not much different from other markets or industries, be it manufacturing, agro-industry, or even the labor market. These various processes require open entry-exit access to operate efficiently and productively.

Therefore, an effective political industry should open up the broadest possible opportunities for every citizen and existing institution to participate in decision-making. Thus, all decisions taken truly reflect the desires of the citizens, taken in a democratic process.