DENPASAR, Indonesia -- A veil of skepticism has descended over Indonesia's democracy as the country prepares to vote in legislative elections on April 9. But although votes will be cast under the shadow of serious problems and deficiencies, there is also reason for optimism. Admittedly, none of the 38 national parties have impressed with well-conceived political platforms. Their rallies have been more about handing out goodies and presenting dandugt concerts than debating the country's many ills. Add to that allegations of vote-buying and the blatant ineptitude of the Election Commission, and what emerges is a depressing picture that has led some analysts to predict that the elections themselves will be chaotic, followed by a flood of lawsuits and possible violence.
Despite Problems, Indonesia’s Democracy Matures
