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Submitted: 30 August 2024
Accepted: 17 November 2024
Published: 18 November 2024
Volume 3 Issue 1 (2024), E ISSN- 2987-968X
https://jurnal.tintaemas.id/index.php/JSH/index
The Relationship Pattern Between Political Parties, Candidate Figures, and Constituents in the
Regional Head Election Contest in Makassar City
Imam Mukti ,1, , Arlin Adam 2, , Syamsidah Syamsidah 1, , Syamsu A Kamaruddin 1
1 Universitas Negeri Makassar, Indonesia,
imammuckti@gmail.com, arlinadam73@gmail.com,
syamsidah@unm.ac.id,
syamsukamaruddin@gmail.com
2 Universitas Mega Buana Palopo, Indonesia,
imammuckti@gmail.com
Abstract
This study aims to describe the pattern of relations between
political parties, figures and constituents in the regional head
elections in Makassar City, to elaborate on the political
communication strategies of figures in building patterns of
relations with political parties and constituents in the regional head
elections in Makassar City, and to find relevant theoretical solutions
in providing political education for constituents and increasing
active participation of constituents in the regional head elections in
Makassar City. The method used is a Qualitative approach, with
the research paradigm used, namely Post Positivistic. The results of
the study indicate that the relationship between political parties
and candidate figures is transactional, where material interests and
power are the main binders. This relationship often exploits and
dominates constituents, prioritizing symbolic politics and the use
of money as the main tool in building relationships.
Keywords: Relationship Patterns, Politics, Power, Communication.
1. INTRODUCTION
Differences in views and political attitudes of
constituents often cause horizontal conflicts, not only
between political elites and figures from each
presidential or regional head candidate pair, but also
between constituent groups supporting certain
candidate pairs [1]. This phenomenon often occurs in
every political contestation held, both in the context of
presidential and vice presidential elections, and in
regional head elections. This is the impact of the
relationship pattern between political parties and
constituents, as well as between candidate figures and
constituents that are not balanced.
The pattern of relations that are built in an
unbalanced manner between political parties, figures
and constituents in political contests always has
implications for the emergence of various "conflicts" of
interest [2]. These conflicts occur and spread
horizontally among constituents [3]. In reality, the
conflicts that often occur in every political battle or
contest can be classified into two forms, namely in the
form of non-physical, namely the existence of mutual
attacks through the formation of public opinion, and
physical conflict, namely the existence of physical
opposition carried out by each individual or group of
supporters of each particular candidate pair.
Correspondence Address
A. P. Pettarani Street, Tidung, Rappocini District, Makassar City, Sulawesi Selatan, Indonesia, imammuckti@gmail.com
Horizontal conflict as one of the consequences of
an unbalanced relationship pattern in political
contestation, not only occurs between political elites,
between groups or factions that are contesting, but also
spreads massively among constituents [4]. This
condition will cause a very complex political and social
crisis. The social crisis referred to here is the imbalance
of information received by constituents which results
in confusion in filtering information to be accepted.
Furthermore, the imbalance of information as a form of
propaganda carried out by political elites through the
mass media, is a form of imbalance in the relationship
pattern that exists between political parties, figures
and constituents [5]. This will give rise to various
perceptions and even conflicting actions among
constituents, which can disrupt political security and
stability, even to the point of physical clashes between
constituent groups who have different political views
and attitudes.
The existence of a pattern of relations in the form
of political contraction and social conflict that occurs
due to political struggles, has a very large impact on
the political economy [6]. The political contraction and
conflict that occur cannot be separated from the
election violations committed by each successful team
of the regional head candidate pairs. In the
implementation of the 2020 simultaneous regional
head elections, various violations occurred that had an
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impact on the worsening social situation. Moreover, in
the implementation of the 2020 simultaneous regional
elections, it took place in the midst of the Covid 19
pandemic [7]. Data from the Bawaslu of the Republic
of Indonesia shows that there were 18,668 cases or
problems that occurred in the implementation of the
2020 simultaneous regional head elections (Pilkada).
The Election Supervisory Body (Bawaslu) of the
Republic of Indonesia has identified the regions with
the highest number of reported election violations.
East Java ranks first with 3,002 recorded cases,
followed by South Sulawesi with 571 cases, Central
Sulawesi with 470 cases, West Java with 390 cases, and
Central Java with 364 cases [8]. This data highlights
that South Sulawesi ranks second in terms of reported
election violations. Specifically, the highest incidence
of violations in South Sulawesi occurred during the
2020 regional head elections in Makassar City [9].
The issues that arose during the regional head
elections in Makassar were significantly influenced by
differing perspectives and political attitudes among
constituents. These differences led to the emergence of
a relational pattern characterized by political
polarization and social conflict during the election
contest [10]. The situation escalated as campaign teams
for the mayoral and deputy mayoral candidates
promoted their respective programs and the
qualifications of their candidates. In this context, the
main problem identified was the emergence of an
imbalanced relational pattern, resulting in social
polarization and horizontal conflicts among
constituents.
This study aims to describe the pattern of
relations between political parties, figures and
constituents in the regional head elections in Makassar
City, to elaborate on the political communication
strategies of figures in building patterns of relations
with political parties and constituents in the regional
head elections in Makassar City, and to find relevant
theoretical solutions in providing political education
for constituents and increasing active participation of
constituents in the regional head elections in Makassar
City.
2. METHOD
The method used in this study is a qualitative
descriptive method, with the research paradigm used,
namely Post Positivistic. Qualitative research methods
are in-depth approaches and focus on understanding
the social and cultural context, as well as the
experiences of the subjects being studied [11]. This
method aims to explore meaning and understand
phenomena holistically, by paying special attention to
individual or group perspectives. The location of the
research was carried out in Makassar City, while the
focus of the research was the Relationship Pattern. This
research was conducted from January 2023 to August
2024.
The data sources used in this study are primary
data and secondary data. Primary data is taken
through in-depth direct interviews, field notes,
observation notes, or written materials obtained
through direct interaction between researchers and
participants. While secondary data is data obtained
through literature reviews, various documents
needed, or research results that are relevant and
related to the research, such as journals, books, or
electronic archives containing data relevant to the
research topic [12]. The first data collection technique
used in this study is observation. Observations are
carried out at the research locus, namely political
parties, candidate figures and constituents in Makassar
City. The second technique is in-depth interviews with
several informants who are considered worthy and
know information related to the relationship patterns
that occur in the regional election contestation in
Makassar City, and the last data collection technique is
documentation, namely by collecting information
through electronic archives in the mass media, related
to news coverage of regional head candidate figures in
Makassar City.
The data obtained were analyzed inductively.
The collected data were examined by identifying
patterns, themes, and meanings that naturally
emerged, related to the relational patterns in the local
election contestation in Makassar City. The researcher
employed a flexible and reflective approach to
interpret and provide a rich explanation of the
collected data. The result of this analysis was in the
form of a detailed description, theories developed
based on the data, or a holistic depiction of the
phenomenon under study. The final process involved
drawing conclusions.
3. RESULT AND DISCUSSION
Transactional Relationship between Political Parties
and Figures
The transactional relationship between political
parties and figures illustrates the dynamic of mutually
beneficial interactions between these two entities
within a political context. In this relationship, political
parties and figures are interdependent, relying on one
another to achieve shared political goals and interests
[13]. Woolley's perspective aligns with the context of
transactional relationships that occur in the democratic
process, where the transactional relationship between
political parties and figures is a common reality within
political dynamics, influencing policy formation and
political decision-making. The following are the results
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of observations from several sources that have been
gathered and subsequently analyzed as follows:
Table 1. Results of Observation Based on Observed Aspects
No
Observed Aspects
Observation Results
Source
1
Mutually Beneficial
Interaction
There is a mutual dependence between political
parties and candidate figures in winning the
election.
Documents from the Makassar local
election panel and election reports.
2
Pragmatic Interests
The negotiation between political parties and
candidates focuses on the distribution of power
and strategic electoral programs.
Local media reports, political analysis
reports, and pre-election survey
results.
3
The Influence of
Candidate Figures in
Negotiations.
Candidates with high popularity tend to have a
significant influence on party decisions.
Campaign team discussions and
opinion articles from political analysts.
4
Risks of Corruption
and Nepotism
Practices
There is potential for corrupt practices related to
the offering of positions and projects to certain
candidate figures.
Documentation of political corruption
cases, investigative journalistic reports,
and public panel discussions
5
Logistics and
Infrastructure Support
The party provides logistical support such as
campaign funds, campaign team networks, and
media access.
Campaign news, and party financial
reports in elections
6
Exchange of Resources
and Political Support
There is an exchange of financial and political
support, where parties gain legitimacy from
popular figures.
Political campaign analysis, electability
survey results, and party strategic
reports
7
Changing Relationship
Dynamics
The relationship between parties and candidate
figures changes according to the political
situation and election developments.
Direct observation during the
campaign, daily news about shifting
political alliances
8
The Influence of
Foucault's Theoretical
Framework on Power
Power relations are not only formal, but also
through narrative and media mechanisms that
shape public perception.
Discourse analysis in social media,
political theory articles, and academic
publications related to power theory
9
Image Strategy and
Narrative
Arrangement
Candidates and parties use the media to build a
positive image through image campaigns.
Analysis of social media content,
television campaign advertisements,
and mass media reports
10
Makassar Regional
Election Contest
There are intense negotiations between political
parties and figures regarding strategy and the
division of power.
Election results reports and
investigative news from local media
Table 1 shows that the practice of transactional
relations in politics can be seen through the perspective
of how political parties need figures who have
popularity, influence, and the ability to mobilize the
masses as one of the indicators of success in achieving
public support and success in elections. On the other
hand, candidate figures need political parties as a
platform to convey their ideas, agendas, and policies to
a wider audience. Political parties provide logistical
support, organizational infrastructure, and political
resources that are very much needed by figures to
achieve political success. The phenomenon of
transactional relations between political parties and
figures only focuses on efforts to win political battles.
Ideally, the relationship between political parties and
figures focuses more on good management in the
distribution of people's welfare, not just political
interests to achieve power alone [14].
Interdependence in the context of this
transactional relationship will create the risk of
corruption or unethical political practices. If not
properly regulated, this transactional relationship can
lead to collusion and nepotism, where personal or
small group interests can replace the public interest.
Therefore, interdependence between political parties
and figures creates a dynamic in the political realm,
where effective collaboration can have a positive
impact on the development of democracy and public
services, while lack of supervision can open the door
to behavior that is detrimental to society. In general,
transactional politics will harm the realization of
democratic elections and have implications for the
process of organizing the regional elections themselves
which are less democratic.
The Makassar City regional head election
contest was marked by intense negotiations between
political parties and candidate figures regarding the
division of power, determination of priority programs,
and strategies to win public support. In some cases,
candidate figures have significant influence on
political party decisions, while political parties also
play a role in shaping the image and political narrative
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of candidate figures. Political support is a form of
symbiotic interaction between political parties and
candidate figures that involves the exchange of
resources and political power. In the context of
transactional relations, this relationship can be
explained as a form of pragmatic agreement in which
each party fulfills their political needs and goals.
Political parties need candidate figures to gain
legitimacy, mass support, and special expertise that
can strengthen their political base. Conversely,
candidate figures need organizational infrastructure
and financial support owned by political parties to
achieve their political goals.
Transactional relations in this context occur due
to the exchange of political support, resources, and
access to the voter base. Political parties provide
various political support and platforms to candidate
figures, while candidate figures use their personal
qualities and political networks as instruments to
benefit political parties. However, this relationship is
dynamic and can change over time and with changes
in political interests. Candidate figures and political
parties support each other as long as their interests are
aligned, but this relationship is vulnerable to political
shifts, differences of opinion, or changes in personal
interests. In this context, political support that occurs
in transactional relations between political parties and
figures is not only limited to rhetorical or symbolic
support, but involves real exchanges that provide
concrete benefits for both parties [15].
Transactional relations between political parties
and figures in the Makassar city regional head election
contestation, if examined through the framework of
Michel Foucault's power relations theory, then the
transactional relations between political parties and
candidate figures are understood as a form of
exchange or agreement involving common interests.
Foucault emphasized that power is not an entity
owned exclusively by the government or political
parties, but rather a complex network involving
various actors in society [16]. Foucault emphasized the
importance of understanding power as a network
spread across various levels of society. In this context,
political parties and candidate figures in Makassar
City are interrelated entities, forming transactional
relations that include the exchange of interests,
support, and resources. Political parties, as agents of
formal power, utilize candidate figures to gain
legitimacy and support from constituents.
Political parties, which have formal power
structures, interact with candidate figures to achieve
common goals. Transactions between the two involve
the exchange of political support, resources, or
information that can improve their position in the
political sphere. In Foucault's framework, this
transactional relationship is not only limited to formal
structures, but also highlights hidden or invisible
power mechanisms. Political parties and candidate
figures will influence each other through strategies
that are not always visible on the surface, such as the
use of media, narrative construction, or the
arrangement of political discourse [17].
Transactional relations within Foucault's
framework emphasize the importance of controlling
information and narratives as tools for shaping public
opinion. Political parties and candidate figures in
Makassar are involved in the construction of narratives
that lead to favorable image-building, creating a
symbiotic relationship that strengthens each other's
position. Additionally, Foucault's concept of biopower
is also relevant here, referring to the use of power to
regulate the lives of individuals. In the context of
regional elections, political parties and candidate
figures use their power to manage political life, design
policies, and control available resources.
Exploitative and Dominant Relationship Between
Political Parties and Figures Towards Constituents
The reality of exploitative relationships between
political parties or candidate figures and their
constituents often manifests in various forms, such as
using their positions or power to manipulate or exploit
their constituents. In dominant relationships, political
parties or candidate figures hold significant influence
or power over their constituents. In this context,
constituents are bound or dependent on the political
party or candidate due to the lack of adequate political
alternatives. The political power or popularity of the
candidate figure forces constituents to comply or
follow directives without much critical consideration.
The exploitative and dominant relationships enacted
by political parties and candidate figures often create
an imbalance of power between them and their
constituents. This leads to political injustice, inequality
in resource distribution, and political dissatisfaction
among the public. The dominant relationship between
political parties and constituents results in abuse of
power and political manipulation. Candidate figures
with dominant control continually use their power to
strengthen their party’s position, even if it means
sacrificing the interests of their constituents. [18].
Based on the observations during the local
elections campaign in Makassar, several indications of
exploitative and dominant relationships between
candidates and constituents were found.
“During campaign events in several districts, it was
observed that candidates often used strategies such as
direct aid or donations to specific community groups.
For example, at one event, the candidate provided aid
in the form of staple goods to attendees, particularly
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those from low-income families. (Observation,
8/10/24)”
The observation also recorded social pressure
felt by the constituents.
“At one meeting, some residents shared with the
observation team that they felt compelled to attend
because they feared they would not receive future
social assistance if they did not show support. In
addition, the candidate's use of mass media was
notably dominant, with political advertisements
shaping public opinion to support the candidate
without leaving room for alternative political choices.
(Observation, 8/10/24)”
This indicates an attempt to control the political
narrative by the candidate to strengthen their
dominance, pointing to a dominant relationship that
limits the constituents' freedom to choose. Although
exploitative and dominant relationships between
political parties and constituents, as well as between
candidate figures and constituents, are common, the
power dynamics may shift over time. This occurs when
constituents begin to realize that their interests are
being ignored or exploited by certain political parties
or candidate figures, prompting them to seek
alternative political options. However, if exploitative
and dominant relationships persist, they may lead to
political polarization and ideological conflicts.
The political polarization that arises will create
new conflicts in the relationships between political
parties, candidate figures, and constituents. When
political parties and candidate figures seek to
strengthen their own views and ideologies,
constituents may feel forced to choose between
extreme options. This can further strengthen dominant
relationships, where political parties and candidate
figures demand absolute loyalty from their
constituents, leaving no space for differing opinions or
negotiation [19].
The exploitative and dominant relations
between political parties and candidate figures
towards constituents in the context of regional head
elections in Makassar City can be understood through
the lens of Michel Foucault's power relations theory.
Foucault views power as a network of relations that
encompasses various areas of life, including politics. In
regional head elections, political parties and candidate
figures dominate and exploit constituents. Political
parties and candidate figures use various strategies to
gain power and maintain it, through control over
political narratives and control over resources [20].
The exploitative and dominant relationship
between political parties and candidate figures with
constituents can also be seen through the prism of
biopower and governmentality practices introduced
by Foucault. Biopower is an effort by the government
or authority to regulate and control the population as
a whole, both physically and politically [21]. In the
context of local elections, political parties and
candidate figures utilize various instruments of
biopower to influence the behavior and perceptions of
constituents. In this regard, political parties and
candidate figures employ mass media to disseminate
narratives that support their political agendas or
organize political events designed to strengthen their
political identity among constituents.
Meanwhile, the concept of governmentality
refers to the ways in which individuals and groups are
governed by various structures of power and
knowledge within society. In the context of local
elections, political parties and candidate figures use
governmentality to govern their constituents, both
through formal regulations such as electoral rules or
political laws, and through informal mechanisms such
as social norms or political culture instilled within
society [21]. Both cases represent an illustration of the
reality that occurs, where political parties and
candidate figures leverage their power to shape and
control the behavior and political views of their
constituents. Political parties and candidate figures
employ various methods such as surveillance, control
of information, or the formation of public opinion to
ensure that constituents remain loyal to them.
Political parties and candidate figures
competing in regional elections tend to employ various
strategies to control political narratives and
manipulate the knowledge available in society.
Political parties and candidate figures achieve this
through the domination of mass media, the formation
of favorable political narratives, or even control over
education and other knowledge institutions [22].
Foucault argues that knowledge is not neutral but
rather a product of power and political structures. In
this context, political parties and candidate figures use
knowledge as a tool to reinforce their dominance over
constituents. They control access to information,
censor or manipulate facts, or even create narratives
that align with their political interests.
Through their control over knowledge and
management of political discourse, political parties
and candidate figures can strengthen their exploitative
and dominant relationships with constituents in the
context of regional elections in Makassar.
Conceptually, an exploitative relationship refers to the
utilization of political interests and resources by
political parties and candidate figures without
considering the true interests of the constituents. In the
context of regional elections, this can occur through
opaque campaign funding, unrealistic political
promises, or the abuse of power in other forms.
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Meanwhile, a dominant relationship refers to the
domination or influence held by political parties or
specific candidate figures over constituents. This
dominance can be direct, such as intimidation or
pressure on voters, or indirect, through control over
economic resources or mass media.
Symbolic Politics
Symbolic politics refers to the use of symbols,
emblems, and rituals by actors or candidate figures to
achieve their political goals. This concept emphasizes
the importance of symbols in communicating political
messages, building political identities, and influencing
public perceptions of the government, political parties,
or certain political movements. In this context, symbols
such as flags, national emblems, national anthems, and
ritual events have the power to trigger emotions,
arouse solidarity, or communicate certain political
messages to the public. The regional head elections in
Makassar City displayed political dynamics that were
rich in symbolism. In the context of symbolic politics,
many elements were considered in an effort to build an
image, represent values, and influence public
perception. Symbolic politics in the regional head
elections in Makassar City is a political process
dominated by the use of symbols, emblems, and
images to influence constituent perceptions and
emotions. In this context, candidate figures use various
symbolic strategies to build a positive image,
communicate their political messages, and win
constituent support.
Candidate figures competing in the regional
head election contest in Makassar City tend to build
their leadership image and achievements through the
use of symbols that emphasize their past achievements
or future visions. In addition, in an effort to expand
their support base, candidate figures often use symbols
that emphasize their commitment to representation
and social justice. In the digital era like today, symbolic
politics often occurs through the use of social and
visual media. Candidate figures often use photos,
videos, and graphics designed to attract attention,
communicate messages, and build the desired image
among constituents in building relationship patterns.
“during the campaign event at Karebosi Field on July
18, 2024, the two competing candidates used
Makassar cultural symbols to strengthen relations
with local constituents. Candidate A wore traditional
Makassar clothing and invited the traditional
Gendang Makassar music group to perform. This
step aims to highlight local identity and show the
candidate's closeness to local culture. In contrast,
Candidate B chose to use religious symbols in the
campaign in Tamalate District by holding a joint
prayer event and singing religious songs. This
strategy shows how symbolic politics is used to create
emotional closeness with constituents based on
cultural and religious identity. (Observation,
08/18/24).”
The regional head elections in Makassar City
recorded a number of events that showed strong
symbolic politics. In this context, symbolic politics
used by political parties and candidate figures, refers
to the use of symbols, images, or non-verbal messages
to influence public perception of competing candidates
and political parties. One striking example is the use of
cultural and religious symbols in political campaigns.
To build a pattern of relations with constituents,
candidate figures utilize local and traditional icons of
Makassar, such as traditional clothing, dance, and
music, to build a strong image among constituents [23].
Symbolic politics in the regional head election
contest in Makassar City can also be seen in the use of
colors and symbols of political parties. Candidate
figures and political parties use colors that are
traditionally associated with their political parties, as
well as symbols that are easily recognized by
constituents. This use aims to strengthen the party's
identity and make it easier for constituents to identify
their choices at the polling station. One example that
occurs is the presence of candidates who build
narratives about their experience and qualifications in
the fields of government, infrastructure development,
or financial management. They always highlight their
achievements during their previous term or their
vision to build the city of Makassar in a better direction
by using the slogan "2 x + √" which can be interpreted
that when they are re-elected, they will make the city
of Makassar better. The results of the observation
show:
“On social media, especially Instagram, it is seen that
candidates use strong slogans and branding as part
of a symbolic political strategy. Candidate A carries
the slogan “Makassar Lebih Baik 2x + √”, which
implies an increase in quality if the candidate is re-
elected. This slogan is combined with the use of
dominant colors blue and red, which represent
stability and courage. Candidate B, on the other hand,
uses the slogan “Makassar Berkah dan Sejahtera”,
with a dominant color green that represents a
religious impression and prosperity. This shows that
visual branding and the use of memorable slogans are
strategic efforts to strengthen the candidate's image
and communicate their political vision to the public
(Observation, 8/08/24).”
These narratives are not only intended to
convince constituents of their capabilities as leaders,
but also to attract sympathy and support from
constituents. Symbolic politics that occur during the
political battle process in the Makassar City regional
elections are also seen in branding strategies and
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campaign naming. Candidate figures and political
parties use strong, memorable, and down-to-earth
slogans to strengthen their campaign identity. These
slogans are a reflection of the values they want to
convey to constituents, such as honesty, loyalty, or
justice and so on. Therefore, symbolic politics in the
Makassar City regional head election contest is not
only limited to the use of visual symbols or political
narratives, but also includes the use of social media,
branding strategies, and campaign naming.
The results of the observations show that:
“At a campaign event in Panakkukang District on
August 15, 2024, one of the candidates invited
prominent religious figures to lead prayers before the
event began. In addition, the candidate used religious
symbols, such as installing flags inscribed with
verses from the Qur'an around the campaign stage.
The use of these religious symbols indicates a
symbolic political strategy aimed at attracting the
sympathy of constituents from religious
communities. This approach has proven effective in
creating an emotional campaign atmosphere and
strengthening the candidate's image as a religious
figure committed to religious values (Observation,
8/08/24).”
This shows that symbolic politics has become an
integral part of modern political strategy in building
patterns of relations with constituents, where
candidate figures and political parties are smart in
utilizing various tools and techniques to influence
public perception and support [24].
One important aspect of symbolic politics is how
these symbols can inspire or mobilize the masses.
Through the use of inspiring symbols, candidate
figures and political parties will strengthen social
movements or mobilize the community to change
conditions that are considered unfair or unsatisfactory.
All the dynamics that occur in the context of symbolic
politics, slowly have the potential to cause conflict or
polarization in society. The use of controversial
symbols or those that belittle certain groups will
trigger negative reactions and deepen the divisions
between groups. Therefore, candidate figures and
political parties, ideally choose symbols wisely and
consider their impact on the diversity and unity of
society, nation and state [25]. Observations also note
the potential for polarization in society as an effect of
this symbolic politics.
“The use of symbols that focus on certain cultural
and religious identities has caused debate on social
media, especially on platforms such as Twitter.
Several posts show residents who feel unrepresented
by certain candidates because of the use of symbols
that are considered exclusive and not inclusive of all
Makassar residents. For example, some community
groups view Candidate A's use of traditional
Makassar clothing as an exclusive effort that does not
reflect the cultural diversity of the multi-ethnic city
of Makassar (Observation, 8/08/24).”
Symbolic politics in the context of regional head
elections in Makassar City can be understood through
the interpretation and reception of symbols by the
community. Although candidate figures and political
parties design symbolic messages with certain goals,
the way the community understands and responds to
these symbols will also affect the election results.
Symbolic politics is not only an effort by politicians to
influence voters, but also a dynamic process that
involves interaction between political actors and the
community. Symbolic politics in the context of regional
head elections in Makassar City is not only a strategy
used by political parties and candidate figures to build
a pattern of relations with constituents, but is a
reflection of complex social, cultural, and political
dynamics.
Money as a Tool of Political Relations
Money plays a role in influencing political
dynamics. In this context, money is not only a means
of transaction, but also an instrument used to build
political relations, gain support, and influence election
results. Regional head candidates often invest large
sums of money in building political alliances with
political parties, community leaders, religious leaders,
and other interest groups.
“Money is used to fund various campaign activities,
including media advertising, billboards, and political
events to attract voter support. In addition, money is
also used to build alliances with local political figures,
political parties, and other interest groups that have
influence in the election (Observation 8/23/24).”
Through financial assistance, candidate figures
can persuade individuals and groups to support their
political vision and agenda [26]. Money has become
one of the main factors in influencing political
dynamics in Makassar City. It is undeniable that
money is a very strong political relation tool in the
regional head elections in Makassar City. The regional
head candidate figures and their supporting teams use
money for various purposes, ranging from political
campaigns to unethical political practices such as
bribery and gratification (Money politics). Large
amounts of money are used to finance political
campaigns, buying support, and other political
practices aimed at winning certain candidates [7].
"The use of money in the practice of "money politics"
such as giving cash, gratification, and other forms is
also observed in political contestation in Makassar.
This kind of practice causes distortion of democracy
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© I. Mukti et al.
and inequality in opportunities for candidates who do
not have large financial access (Observation,
8/23/24)."
In the regional head election contest in Makassar
City, money is not only used as a tool to win voters'
votes, but also as an instrument to strengthen political
relations between candidate figures and various
parties who have political and economic interests in
Makassar City. Regional head candidate figures use
money to build strong political networks, gain support
from local political figures, gain access to important
political resources and infrastructure, and expand their
electoral base.
The use of money in the context of regional head
elections in Makassar City, presents a number of
negative impacts. Political practices driven by the use
of money as a means of relations, lead to the emergence
of practices of abuse of power, and distortion of
democracy. In addition, the excessive use of money in
political campaigns, indirectly creates inequality and
inequity in the political process, where candidate
figures who have greater financial access tend to
dominate the political stage, while candidates who are
less financially able are marginalized [7]. The results of
the observations show:
“Excessive use of money in political campaigns
causes inequality in political access. Candidates with
greater financial resources have an advantage in
expanding their support base and building political
networks, while candidates who are less financially
able are marginalized. This also leads to the
emergence of practices of abuse of power
(Observation, 8/23/24).”
Through the lens of Michel Foucault's power
relations theory, it shows how money is not only a tool
for economic transactions, but also an instrument of
complex and ever-changing political domination. The
election of regional heads in Makassar City is a
concrete example of how money plays a role in
shaping political relations that influence the dynamics
of power at the regional level, in accordance with the
principles championed by Michel Foucault.[21]. The
use of money in the context of the Makassar City
regional head election illustrates a form of power
manifested in economic form. Elections are often a
stage where economic power plays a major role in
determining the political direction of a region. In this
case, candidate figures with access to strong financial
resources tend to have an advantage in building
political support networks, conducting effective
campaigns, and even influencing public opinion
through media coverage [27]. The results of the
observation show:
“The use of money in the regional head elections in
Makassar shows how power manifested in economic
form influences political relations between
candidates, political parties, local elites, and interest
groups. The political relations formed are not only
vertical between the rulers and the ruled, but also
horizontal between various political actors who
depend on each other to obtain or maintain power
(Observation, 8/23/24).”
Money is also a tool to build and strengthen
political relations between candidates and various
political actors in the regional head election contest in
Makassar City, such as political parties, local elites, or
interest groups. In Foucault's view, these kinds of
relationships are not only vertical between the rulers
and the ruled, but also horizontal between various
political actors who compete and collaborate to gain or
maintain power [28]. The use of money also forms
political dependency between various actors, be it
constituents, political parties, or other elites. In the
context of the Makassar regional head election,
candidate figures who have sufficient financial
resources can provide rewards or support to certain
groups in society as a form of political exchange. This
creates complex relationships between various
political actors, who depend on each other in achieving
their political goals.
4. CONCLUSION
This study reveals the pattern of relations
between political parties, figures, and constituents in
the Makassar City regional head election contestation.
The results of the study indicate that the relationship
between political parties and political figures is
transactional, where material interests and power are
the main binders. This relationship often exploits and
dominates constituents, prioritizing symbolic politics
and the use of money as the main tool in building
relationships. This phenomenon reflects a strong
dependence on materialistic aspects in political
dynamics at the regional level.
Author declaration
Author contributions and responsibilities
The authors made major contributions to the
conception and design of the study. The authors took
responsibility for data analysis, interpretation and
discussion of results. The authors read and approved
the final manuscript.
Funding
This research did not receive external funding.
Availability of data and materials
All data is available from the author.
Competing interests
https://doi.org/10.59535/jsh.v3i1.362
Journal of Social and Humanities 3 (1) (2025), pp. 18-27
26
© I. Mukti et al.
The authors declare no competing interests.
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