Jokowi and Political Dynasty

A political dynasty is a family in which multiple members are involved in politics — particularly electoral politics. Members may be related by blood or marriage; often several generations or multiple siblings may be involved.

Political dynasties can be both good and bad. On the one hand, they can provide stability and continuity in government. They can also help to build up a pool of experienced political leaders. On the other hand, they can lead to corruption and cronyism. They can also make it difficult for new people to enter politics, as they may be seen as having no chance of winning against a well-established dynasty.

Ultimately, whether or not political dynasties are a good thing depends on how they are regulated. If there are strong laws in place to prevent corruption and to ensure that new people have a fair chance to enter politics, then political dynasties can be a positive force. However, if there are no such laws, then they can be a negative force.

Joko Widodo rose to power in 2014 and has been a new political force since. After almost 10 years in power, his family members have set their footholds in politics.

Jokowi's son Gibran Rakabuming Raka is the mayor of Surakarta, his son-in-law Bobby Nasution is the mayor of Medan, and his youngest son Kaesang Pangarep is running for mayor of Depok.

Jokowi's rise to power has been seen by some as a break from the dynastic politics that have long been a feature of Indonesian politics. However, his family's increasing involvement in politics has led to accusations that he is building his own political dynasty.

In a country like Indonesia, where law enforcement can be bent, political dynasties are a nightmare. Political elites and their families can stay in power for a long time. Moreover, with the decentralization of power that gave rise to political dynasties in the regions, make it difficult for the emergence of new leaders from among ordinary people.