Raffi Ahmad and Prime-Time Politics

Raffi Ahmad has emerged as a significant political figure, blending celebrity status with a thriving business empire. This phenomenon underscores how popularity can now serve as a pathway to power in a country where politics often mirrors television dramas. Prior to his recent appointment as the President's special envoy for youth development and the creative workers, Raffi was a well-known TV entertainer.

During Joko Widodo's presidency, he became part of the inner circle of power while simultaneously expanding his diverse business ventures, which span various sectors. Among these businesses is RANS Nusantara Hebat, a joint venture with Kaesang Pangarep, the youngest son of President Joko Widodo. In March 2024, a culinary hub named RANS Entertainment opened in Bumi Serpong Damai, South Tangerang, Banten, but operated for less than a year, illustrating the transient nature of business success, much like television shows.

Raffi's network is intricately connected to other influential figures. Among these connections is Dony Oskaria, who, along with Kaesang, holds shares in RANS Entertainment, with Raffi being the largest shareholder. Dony currently serves as the Chief of the State-Owned Enterprises Regulatory Agency and the Chief Operating Officer of Danantara.

Additionally, Raffi's mentor is Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives and Executive Chair of the ruling Gerindra Party. The two often appear in public together, with Raffi referring to Dasco as his "protégé" and "adopted son."

This web of connections highlights the close ties between celebrities, businesses, political parties, and those in power. While such closeness does not constitute a crime, it raises concerns when personal relationships translate into special access without the necessary transparency. Raffi's appointment as a special presidential envoy has also sparked questions about his competence, given his background as a celebrity rather than a traditional political figure or business executive.

The public has the right to question whether popularity and political connections alone are sufficient qualifications for managing the younger generation and artists.

Despite his appointment, Raffi has been more easily recognized as a celebrity than as an official with notable policy achievements, suggesting that fame may overshadow competence. His tours with various celebrities, some of whom have received sponsorship from state-owned enterprises, have garnered more attention than his work, emphasizing the entertainment world's fascination with "prime time" personalities.

Public officials should aim to "have time to work and be accountable for the results," rather than relying solely on popularity and media attention.

The Raffi phenomenon represents a new face of personalistic politics, where influence is increasingly tied to social media engagement and the ability to maintain visibility and relevance. In the past, political influence relied on religious figures, youth leaders, or community leaders. Now, a new class of influencers with millions of followers has emerged, capable of rallying the masses without forming a political party.

What is at stake here is not merely Raffi's political rise but the broader issue of democracy itself. In a system where popularity can be exchanged for power without clear measures of competence and accountability, the assumption that fame equates to skill in governance poses a significant threat to the democratic process. Celebrities have the right to engage in politics, but the potential dangers lie in assuming that being skilled at building a brand automatically qualifies one to lead a nation. It is essential to safeguard democracy to ensure it is not dictated by popularity alone.