Partai NasDem proposes raising the parliamentary threshold to 7 percent for future elections, a move intended to reduce the number of qualifying parties and simplify the management of national democracy. Party Chairman Surya Paloh announced the stance on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at the NasDem Tower in Gondangdia, Jakarta Pusat, acknowledging that his party’s current survey support stands at just 4 percent.
Surya Paloh Explains the Rationale for a 7 Percent Threshold
According to Surya Paloh, a higher threshold creates a system of selected parties rather than a crowded field. He told reporters that fewer political organizations in the legislature can make it easier to manage the traffic of democracy in the country. The NasDem leader maintained that his party has remained consistent on this issue across multiple electoral cycles.
Paloh admitted that the proposed 7 percent threshold exceeds NasDem’s own polling numbers. Despite trailing the proposed mark in current surveys, he stated that the organization is willing to sacrifice its own parliamentary seats for what he described as a greater national interest. He emphasized that the party accepts the risk of elimination under a stricter cutoff.
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Surya Paloh stated that Partai NasDem proposes a 7 percent parliamentary threshold despite internal surveys showing the party’s current elektabilitas sits at only 4 percent.
Government Coalition Leaders Discuss Electoral Law Revisions
The debate over the parliamentary threshold coincides with recent discussions among leaders of political parties allied with the government. Partai Gerindra Secretary-General Sugiono confirmed that several party leaders gathered recently to discuss revisions to the electoral law governing the threshold. Gerindra was represented at the gathering by daily chairman Dasco on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, at the parliamentary complex in Senayan, Jakarta.
Sugiono stated that participants reached a consensus on specific adjustments during the meetings. While declining to speak for other organizations, Sugiono noted that Partai Gerindra supports a 5 percent parliamentary threshold. He added that Partai Golkar and Partai PKS also conveyed their respective positions during the coordination.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What threshold does Partai NasDem propose for parliamentary elections?
Partai NasDem proposes raising the parliamentary threshold to 7 percent, according to party chairman Surya Paloh.
What position does Partai Gerindra take on the threshold?
Partai Gerindra supports a 5 percent parliamentary threshold, as stated by party Secretary-General Sugiono following coalition discussions.
Where and when did Surya Paloh announce NasDem’s proposal?
Surya Paloh announced the proposal to reporters at the NasDem Tower in Gondangdia, Jakarta Pusat, on Saturday, September 19, 2026.
How might a higher parliamentary threshold alter the political influence of smaller parties in future national elections?
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