Review of The Implementation of Democracy and Legitimacy of Regional Head Officials in Indonesia

In Indonesia, the principle of a state based on law serves as the cornerstone. As an entity, Indonesia also embodies a power structure with democratic principles that encompass the realms of politics and governance. However, as a state based on law, power must have legitimacy embedded within the constitutional framework, thereby constraining governmental authority through legal rules. Recent developments in local governance have drawn public attention, particularly regarding controversies surrounding the appointment of acting regional heads. Yet, this issue transcends mere democratic essence and the principle of a state based on law. This research explores aspects of democratic implementation that encompass legal truth and justice, aiming to understand the issues highlighted by the public concerning the appointment of acting regional heads. Through a socio-legal approach, this empirical research presents the reality of conditions in the regions, shedding light on various questions from the public regarding the appointment of acting regional heads by the central government. It is the dynamic evolution of democracy revealed in this research's findings.