Mediaistana.com – 19 Juli 2026 Tangerang – Public policy observer Saipul Bahri has delivered sharp criticism of the performance of Indonesia’s House of Representatives (DPR) and the Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) of Tangerang City. According to him, after nearly two years in office, many of the public’s long-standing concerns remain unresolved and have yet to receive adequate attention from elected representatives.
Saipul stressed that members of the DPR and DPRD were elected to serve as the voice of the people, not merely to participate in ceremonial events or symbolic political activities. He argued that their constitutional functions—legislation, oversight, and budgeting—must be carried out effectively for the benefit of the public rather than being reduced to administrative formalities or political image-building.
«”The DPR represents the people, not the interests of particular groups. Citizens need tangible results, not empty political promises, speeches, or meetings that fail to bring meaningful change to their daily lives,” Saipul Bahri stated.»
He noted that numerous public complaints continue to emerge, including concerns over social assistance programs that are perceived as being poorly targeted, the lack of proper management of street vendors in many areas, and allegations of illegal levies that require serious oversight and follow-up by the relevant authorities.
«”When citizens question the fairness of social assistance distribution, the disorder surrounding street vendors, or allegations of illegal levies, where are their elected representatives? Members of the DPR and DPRD should stand alongside the people, defend their aspirations, and exercise their oversight function to ensure government policies are implemented properly,” he said.»
According to Saipul, after serving for approximately two years, lawmakers should be prepared to account for the campaign promises they made during the election period.
«”People voted because they believed in the programs and commitments presented during the campaign. Those promises must now be translated into concrete action. Citizens should not only be remembered when their votes are needed during legislative elections and then forgotten once the election is over,” he emphasized.»
Saipul argued that elected representatives must spend more time engaging directly with communities rather than relying solely on official reports or formal meetings.
«”Do not limit your work to parliamentary sessions or committee meetings. Representatives must visit communities, listen to public concerns firsthand, oversee government spending, ensure public programs reach the intended beneficiaries, and consistently fight for the people’s interests. Public office is a mandate that must be justified through real performance,” he asserted.»
He also warned against treating citizens merely as political assets every five years.
«”The people must never become victims of political interests or simply be viewed as a source of electoral support. Citizens are not tools for winning elections. Once elected, representatives have a continuing obligation to remain present, listen to the public, and defend their interests regardless of political calculations. Public trust can only be maintained through integrity, transparency, accountability, and genuine service,” Saipul said.»
In closing, Saipul Bahri called on all members of the DPR and DPRD to conduct a serious evaluation of their performance and strengthen their legislative, oversight, and budgeting responsibilities in the public interest.
He concluded that the success of elected representatives should not be measured by the number of meetings they attend, speeches they deliver, or ceremonial events they participate in, but by the extent to which their policies and actions produce measurable improvements in the lives of the people they represent.
Editor: David E., S.E.
