Political Participation in Village Head Elections: A Qualitative Study of Voter Engagement in Ratte Village, Indonesia

Abstract

Political participation is a fundamental indicator of democratic governance, particularly at the village level where citizens directly influence local leadership through electoral processes. This study aims to examine the forms of political participation and the factors influencing voter participation in the Village Head Election in Ratte Village, Tutar District, Polewali Mandar Regency, Indonesia. A descriptive qualitative research design was employed to gain an in-depth understanding of community participation in the electoral process. The study was conducted in the natural setting of the village using purposive sampling to select four key informants, comprising two members of the Village Head Election Committee and two community members who were eligible voters. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, direct observation, and document analysis, while the data were analyzed using the interactive model of data condensation, data display, and conclusion drawing. The findings indicate that political participation in the village election is reflected through three primary forms: political discussion, campaign participation, and voting behavior. Political discussions within families and community groups contributed to increasing citizens' political awareness and understanding of the candidates. Campaign activities provided opportunities for direct interaction between candidates and voters, strengthening political engagement and encouraging informed electoral choices. Voting participation was influenced not only by individual political awareness but also by public trust in the election committee and the perceived fairness and transparency of the electoral process. Conversely, limited political knowledge and varying levels of confidence in electoral institutions remained challenges affecting voter participation. The study concludes that strengthening political education, increasing transparency in election management, and enhancing public trust in electoral institutions are essential strategies for promoting greater citizen participation and improving the quality of local democratic governance at the village level.