Asymmetrical Customary-Based Local Elections: An Alternative Approach to Recruiting Regional Heads in North Maluku

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the relationship between customary legitimacy, the recruitment of regional head candidates by political parties, and the prospects for implementing asymmetric regional elections in North Maluku. It uses a qualitative literature review approach. Data were drawn from relevant journal articles, legislation, and official documents, and analyzed using content analysis and thematic synthesis. The findings show that the nomination of regional heads is still influenced by considerations of electability, financial resources, political networks, and elite interests. Customary practices, meanwhile, serve as a source of social legitimacy linked to the history and identity of North Maluku's communities. However, customary legitimacy cannot be assumed to represent the aspirations of all members of a diverse population. This study proposes a customary-based public consultation model to inform political parties' candidate selection processes, without replacing direct elections or granting customary institutions veto powers. The model should be implemented in accordance with the principles of transparency, inclusivity, accountability, and equal political rights. As this study is based on a literature review, the model still requires field testing and further legal analysis. Political parties, local government, customary institutions, and civil society should be involved in developing a mechanism suited to local conditions and the principles of constitutional democracy.