KEWENANGAN BAWASLU DALAM MELAKUKAN PENINDAKAN TINDAK PIDANA PEMILU PADA PEMILIHAN UMUM TAHUN 2024 DI KABUPATEN BANDUNG BARAT

Abstract

General Elections (Pemilu) are a fundamental pillar of democracy that ensure public participation in determining the direction of government. The implementation of elections in Indonesia is regulated under Law Number 7 of 2017 and supervised by the KPU, Bawaslu, and DKPP. In West Bandung Regency, the implementation of the 2024 General Election was marked by a high level of vulnerability based on the Election Vulnerability Index (IKP) score, as well as an increase in violations, particularly those related to civil servant neutrality and money politics. This study was conducted to analyze the authority of the West Bandung Regency Bawaslu in handling electoral crimes, identify the inhibiting factors in law enforcement, and examine the efforts undertaken to minimize violations. The research uses an empirical juridical approach with qualitative methods through analysis of relevant legislation and field data obtained from interviews, observations, and documentation. The study’s findings indicate that Bawaslu’s authority is regulated under Law Number 7 of 2017, Bawaslu Regulation Number 7 of 2022, and Bawaslu Regulation Number 3 of 2023; however, its implementation remains limited and highly dependent on coordination with the Election Law Enforcement Center (Sentra Gakkumdu), which involves Bawaslu, the Police, and the Public Prosecutor’s Office. The obstacles include limited handling time, insufficient evidence and witnesses, differing interpretations of electoral crime provisions, limited human resources and infrastructure, and weak public support. Bawaslu’s efforts include strengthening internal capacity, increasing public awareness, and collaborating with educational institutions and civil society organizations.

Keywords: Bawaslu, authority, election crimes, law enforcement, 2024 General Election.