Indonesia after the Elections of 4th May 1982

Abstract

On May 4th, 1982, for the fourth time general elections were held in Indonesia. Earlier elections had been held in 1955, 1971 and 1977. The elections under the Suharto regime, that came into power in 1966, are like in other countries with authoritarian governments characterised by restrictions. Only a part of the seats of the representative bodies is allocated through the elections. The number of parties allowed to participate is limited. Moreover, not all Indonesians have the right to vote and the election campaign is restricted with respect to its duration as well as to the subjects the politicians may raise.