This Week in Politics

Indonesian Presidential Election

After 10 years in office the popular Joko Widodo of the centre to center-left has stepped aside, due to term limits. Prabowo Subianto utilised the circumstances to ensure his victory for the right-wing Gerindra party. Mr Subianto contested the presidency in 2019 and is therefor a recognised face by the Indonesian people. Like Olaf Schultz of the center-left SDP in Gernmany Mr Subianto managed to utilise his predecessors popularity to his advantage. Managing to portray himself as the continuation of Mr Widodo’s popular legacy. Mr Widodo’s own party faced defeated being beat by both Gerindra and an Independent- not particularly flattering results for a party in power for 10 years. However, the results suggest that the person instead of the party is most important for the Indonesians. Sign of a healthy democracy.

Alexei Navalny Dead

Russia‘s most prominent opposition leader, Alexei Navalny, has been reported dead by Russian authorities. Mr Navalny died in a jail located in the artic circle. He was sentenced on the charges of extremism, something largely seen as politically motivated. Is death marks the price of fighting for democracy in Russia and comes as a warning to those who oppose Mr Putin. The question is if this is the bitter end to the movement Mr Navalny was instrumental in creating. His wife appealed to the international community asking ”to help punish this regime.” A close ally of Mr Navalny stated that it was highly likely that this was a murder.

Democrats Take Back New York’s 3rd

After George Santos’ expulsion from Congress a special election was to be held in New York’s 3rd congressional district. The Republicans faced a severe up hill battle; Mr Santos expulsion and a traditionally democrat stronghold. Democrats won the district by over 10% in 2020 alongside the districts historical preference for blue. Tom Suozzi, the democrat’s nominee, was elected by a stronger margin than expected. This a sign of strength moving towards the presidential election later this year. However, the extraordinary circumstances for the election may in of itself garnered the results. Though a strong showing is sure to relieve some blue circles. 

By-Elections in Britain

Labour secured 2 stunning by-election victories in seats once held by the Conservative, Kingswood and Wellingborough. Both the Tories and Labour had a rough week. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak dealt with Britain officially entering a recession. Sir Keir Stamer faced antisemitism claims against his party. However, the fact remains the same; the Tories were trounced in seats that should be considered safe seats. Winning them by margins of 10% or more in 2019. Terribly low turnout in both by-election should worry Labour as it may mean that voters are discontent with both the government and the alternative.