The octopus-like power of Pesantren dynasty in the dynamics of local politics

Abstract

The Pesantren people’s involvement in politics is a new phenomenon that is considered an impediment to the democratic process and progress. This paper aims to fill the gap in existing research on the dominance of the Pesantren people in local politics, which they seem to have strategically mastered. The methodology in this study involved qualitative data collected through observation techniques, interviews, and documentation. The results were analyzed, interpreted, and verified. The study aims to prove that the Pesantren family, including chief officials, utilized state facilities and are in involved in dynastic politics. The study also explores the roles of social, economic, and political capital in election wins. Furthermore, the study explores how dynastic politics has weakened the democratic process and proposes a revision of current election processes to ensure fair elections by strengthening election supervision and encouraging voter education.