Indonesia’s civil society launches movement for fair elections amid poll-rigging concerns

Presidential candidates Anies Baswedan (left), Prabowo Subianto (third from left) and Ganjar Pranowo (second from right) after the drawing of ballot numbers on Nov 14, 2023. - AFP

JAKARTA: Several Indonesian civil society groups have launched a non-partisan movement to ensure that the February 2024 presidential and legislative elections are conducted fairly, amid growing concerns of electoral fraud as campaigning gathers steam.

Jaga Pemilu (Guard the Election) was launched on Nov 21 in Jakarta by prominent and widely-respected social activists, including poet and essayist Goenawan Mohamad and anti-corruption champion Erry Riyana Hardjapamekas. The event was attended by scores of human rights campaigners and university lecturers.