Broken Political Recruitment: When Money Defeats Integrity
By: dr. Yandra Doni – Head of Political Affairs, Gema Bangsa Party
One of the most visible damages in our political landscape today lies in recruitment. Who gets to run for office, who becomes a regional head candidate, who sits on key commissions—these decisions are often based not on merit, but on proximity to power and the ability to “pay their way in.”
As a result, politics has turned into a free market—not a space for advancing ideas, but a transactional arena that places the wrong people in positions of importance.
When Political Seats Become Commodities
We know many are willing to pay large sums just to “secure a ticket” from a party—whether for strategic positions or simply to be listed as a legislative candidate. The consequence? Once elected, their focus shifts from serving the people to recovering their investment.
This is where corruption begins. The logic is simple: if politics starts with money, it will inevitably be played transactionally. Values like integrity, ethics, and competence are pushed aside—when in fact, they should be the foundation for leadership.
A Top-Down System Breeds Transactions
Why does this happen? Because party systems are too centralized. When the central executive board (DPP) is the sole gatekeeper for candidates, those closest to the center gain the advantage. Voices from the grassroots—regional and local boards—are often reduced to mere administrative support.
In such a top-down system, it’s no surprise that many prefer cozying up to elites rather than rising through grassroots struggle. But that’s precisely how the spirit of cadre development dies—and democracy begins to rot from within.
Gema Bangsa: Returning to the Roots
At Gema Bangsa, we believe politics can be done right. That cadres must be cultivated, not bought. That public office is a trust, not a commodity.
We’ve built a transparent and measurable cadre development system. There’s no room for transactions. What we need are individuals who grow with the people, understand social realities, and are ready to fight for public aspirations—not personal gain.
Winning Isn’t Everything
In Gema Bangsa, we hold this principle: winning or losing is a matter of timing. But the quality of a cadre is a matter of commitment. Even those who don’t win are respected and given roles. This party is built on collective effort—not the work of one person.
A party should never discard its people. On the contrary, it must be a place of growth—a home that nurtures, strengthens, and honors every honest struggle.
Politics Must Be Cleansed of Money
If we want a healthy democracy, we must start at the source—party recruitment. We must reject systems that treat money as a ticket into politics. Because politics is not a marketplace—it is a space for service.
It’s time we restore integrity as the primary requirement for leadership. Because the people don’t need expensive leaders—they need leaders who are truly willing to work for them.
