Thomas Rizal, Jakarta – The public is closely watching the performance of celebrity lawmakers in the newly inaugurated 2024-2029 House of Representatives (DPR), as 25 entertainers, including actors and musicians, have secured seats in the Parliament.

Executive Director of Indonesia Political Review (IPR), Ujang Komarudin, said these celebrities must prove their capacity and quality in fulfilling their duties as representatives of the people.

"They must demonstrate that they have the capacity, quality, and sincere intention to work for the public interest," Ujang said during a discussion broadcasted by BTV on Wednesday.

Out of the 580 new lawmakers, 25 come from celebrity backgrounds, including actress Arzeti Bilbina from the National Awakening Party (PKB), singer Ashraff Abu from the Golkar Party, actor Dede Yusuf from the Democratic Party, former lead singer of Ungu Band Sigit "Pasha" Purnomo from the National Mandate Party (PAN), TV host Nico Siahaan, and comedian Denny Cagur from PDI-P.

580 Lawmakers Sworn In for 2024-2029 Term, Including Youngest DPR Member at 23

He noted that public skepticism must be addressed through tangible performance. Only by delivering quality work in legislation, oversight, and budgeting can these celebrity lawmakers dispel doubts about their abilities.

"If they are disciplined and produce substantial work in parliament, the negative perception will gradually fade. However, if they fail to perform, skepticism will surely grow," Ujang added.

He also pointed out that not all celebrities will exhibit the same level of competence.

"Over time, we will see which celebrities are genuinely committed to advocating for public interests and which are not. As with previous terms, only a few celebrity lawmakers truly stood out in their efforts to represent the people," he explained.

Ujang stressed that the next five years will serve as a test for these celebrity lawmakers to prove whether they can effectively serve the people or not.

"The public will continue to watch and assess their performance. If they do well, it will reflect positively on the entertainment industry. But if they fail, they will undoubtedly face harsh criticism," he concluded.

Source: https://jakartaglobe.id/news/can-celebrity-lawmakers-deliver-public-awaits-their-performanc