The Historical Connection Between PDIP, Hasto, and the Dayak Community in West Kalimantan
Hasto named suspect in Harun Masiku Case. (KOMPAS.com/RAMA PARAMAHAMSA)
dayaktoday.com - PONTIANAK: In West Kalimantan, the Dayak community has long had a strong and enduring connection with the Partai Demokrasi Indonesia Perjuangan (PDIP) - Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle.
PDIP thrives through Dayak loyalty, culturally
PDIP's political history in the region has been shaped by influential figures such as Kaphat Massardi, Cornelis, and Lasarus, who have made significant contributions to both local and national politics.
PDIP has consistently enjoyed substantial support in legislative elections and local elections, thanks to a loyal voter base within the Dayak community. This support has been particularly evident in each election cycle, where PDIP has consistently garnered a dominant share of the vote from Dayak voters, further solidifying the party's political foothold in West Kalimantan.
As PDIP’s influence continues to grow, it has gained recognition for its ability to adapt to local aspirations, particularly by addressing the needs of indigenous communities.
The party has focused on key sectors such as education, healthcare, and economic empowerment, areas that resonate deeply with the Dayak people. This relationship forms an emotional bond between the party and the community, extending beyond mere policy to reflect PDIP’s involvement in the social and cultural life of the Dayak people.
The cultural ties that PDIP has cultivated with the Dayak people have become an essential part of its identity in the region. As such, PDIP’s connection with the Dayak community is not just political but also cultural, making it a trusted partner for many in the region.
The Impact of the Hasto Case on Dayak Voters' Political Choices and PDIP’s Future
However, this connection could become a double-edged sword in light of recent events. The involvement of Hasto Kristiyanto, PDIP's Secretary-General, in a corruption case could impact the perception of PDIP among Dayak voters.
Hasto has been named a suspect in a corruption case linked to the 2019 election and the Harun Masiku scandal, an issue that has dominated headlines in recent weeks. The scandal involves the alleged bribery of the former KPU Commissioner, Wahyu Setiawan, with Hasto’s involvement in the case raising questions about the integrity of the party’s leadership.
In a region where trust and integrity are highly valued, such a case could lead some voters to question whether PDIP still upholds the values that have traditionally resonated with the Dayak community. While the loyalty of Dayak voters to PDIP has historically been strong, their continued support may now be at risk due to the scandal. If the Dayak people perceive the party as being complicit in unethical behaviour, they may begin to reconsider their political allegiance.
Voters are likely to feel disappointed if they believe that the party they’ve supported for years is now embroiled in scandal, especially when it concerns issues like corruption and manipulation of the electoral process. Public perception of corruption, particularly involving high-ranking officials, often leads to a decline in support from voters who prioritise transparency and accountability.
This scandal could make it more difficult for PDIP to maintain its dominance in future elections, particularly if the public views it as a reflection of systemic issues within the party. However, it is not guaranteed that PDIP will lose the support of the Dayak community.
The loyalty that Dayak voters have towards the party, nurtured through decades of political and social engagement, could provide PDIP with resilience in the face of such a scandal. In some cases, voters tend to focus on the broader track record of the party rather than isolated incidents, which could allow PDIP to weather the storm if it responds effectively and reaffirms its commitment to the welfare of the people.
-- Apai Deraman