Political Mobilization Through Bureaucratic Channels: The Roles Of Camat And Lurah In Gowa Regency

Abstract

This study analyzes the utilization of district heads (camat) and sub-district heads (lurah) as instruments for mobilizing political support in Gowa Regency. Using in-depth interview data from nine key informants, including the Regent of Gowa, this research uncovers a comprehensive strategy for leveraging bureaucracy for electoral mobilization. The analysis is conducted through four theoretical frameworks: structural functionalism, exchange theory, populism, and neo-institutionalism. The findings reveal a pattern of representative bureaucracy based on familial ties, loyalty-patronage exchange, a populist approach in development programs, and the development of informal institutions in bureaucratic management. The combination of these strategies contributed to a significant increase in vote acquisition from 32% in the first term to 91% in the second term. These findings provide a more comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms behind the use of local bureaucracy in the context of Indonesia’s electoral politics.