Democracy Without Opposition Is Just Another Name for Authoritarianism

By: dr. Yandra Doni – Head of Political Affairs, Gema Bangsa Party

We often claim that Indonesia is a democratic country. But the real question is: does democracy still live if every political party merely follows those in power?

Today, our political climate grows increasingly silent in the face of criticism. Most parties support the government. Parliament appears more united—but not in oversight, rather in approval. The opposition has nearly vanished. Yet democracy without opposition is nothing more than authoritarianism in disguise.

Democracy Needs Balance, Not Blind Praise

A healthy democracy requires balance. There must be those who dare to question, to criticize, even to reject policies that don’t make sense. But today, anyone who speaks differently is quickly labeled a troublemaker. The space for dissent is shrinking.

Parliament has become a room of uniformity. No challenging voices. No sharp debates. Just a long line of agreement.

This is dangerous. Because without opposition, there are no brakes. No corrections. No alternatives. And worse: no hope.

Opposition Is Not the Enemy—It’s the Guardian of Democracy

Many people think opposition means hatred or total rejection. In truth, healthy opposition is born from love for the nation. It exists to ensure that power is not abused. To make the government think twice before making decisions.

I always say: being in opposition is not about fighting the government—it’s about defending the people.

Gema Bangsa: Daring to Be the Counter Voice

This is where Gema Bangsa takes a firm stand. We don’t follow the current. We’re not afraid to be different. Because we believe—if every party only supports, then who will hold power accountable?

We are here to balance, not to rebel. We aim to strengthen democracy, not to topple the government. But if a policy goes astray, we will speak up. If there is misconduct, we will expose it. If the people are harmed, we will act.

Democracy Without Dissent Is Numb

We cannot keep pretending everything is fine. True democracy must be noisy with ideas—not silent out of fear. It is through debate, dialogue, and tension that the best decisions emerge.

If all opinions come from a single source, then who represents the millions who disagree?

We Need More Who Dare to Be Different

Indonesia is not short on smart people. But we lack those who dare to speak the truth. We need more who are willing to take the uncomfortable position: to be constructive opposition, to be a critical voice, and to guard democracy from becoming a veiled monarchy.

Because if everyone stays silent, it is the people who suffer most.

And Gema Bangsa chooses not to stay silent.