TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - A power struggle during the upcoming regional election is expected to take place in East Belitung as family members of two prominent national figures, Governor Basuki "Ahok" Tjahaja Purnama and law expert Yusril Ihza Mahendra, are to take the center stage. Ahok is represented by his brother and incumbent candidate, Basuri Tjahaja Purnama, and Yusril is represented by his brother, Yuslih Ihza Mahendra, notable for attempting to topple the Ahok's political dynasty in Belitung.

Politics expert from Bangka Belitung University, Ibrahim, said that it is normal for the two pivotal figures to have great influence as Indonesian politics relies heavily on physical identity, instead of ideology. "Race, religion, and other identity traits play an important role in our political turf today. Therefore, the clash between these two figures in Belitung will be interesting," Ibrahim told Tempo on Tuesday July 28.

Nevertheless, Ibrahim see the two figures not by their more-known brother. He believed that Basuri and Yuslih as candidates reflect the changes in the country's political map. "Having no other contenders does not necessarily mean that other candidates are intimidated by Ahok and Yusril. However, the fact that candidates must step down from their position as civil servants before nominating themselves as candidates has caused future candidates to put much consideration [before running in elections]," Ibrahim said.

SERVIO MARANDA