Getting to Know Abdul Faris Umlati, the Southwest Papua Politician Whose Candidacy Was Cancelled by the KPU

Kapanlagi.com - Abdul Faris Umlati, a seasoned politician who has served as the Regent of Raja Ampat for two terms, is now facing a significant challenge. His candidacy for Governor of Southwest Papua was officially cancelled by the local General Election Commission (KPU) at the end of October 2024.

This decision was made after the Election Supervisory Body (Bawaslu) found administrative violations in Abdul Faris's policies regarding the appointment of interim officials in several regions.

Bawaslu Southwest Papua highlighted the violations that occurred during the replacement of positions in North Waigeo District and Kabilol Village, which were deemed to violate election regulations. This finding prompted the KPU to revoke Abdul Faris's candidacy for Governor.

In his statement, the Chairman of the Southwest Papua KPU, Andarias Kambu, emphasized that this decision was made based on legal responsibility, not merely the desires of the commissioners.

However, there is still hope for Abdul Faris and his vice gubernatorial candidate. The KPU has given them the opportunity to appeal to the Supreme Court in accordance with applicable legal provisions.

Stay tuned for further developments regarding Abdul Faris Umlati, summarized by Kapanlagi.com from various sources on Tuesday (5/11).

1. Abdul Faris Umlati: Political Career and Experience

Abdul Faris Umlati, commonly known as AFU, is a prominent politician in Southwest Papua. Born in Sorong City, AFU began his political journey brilliantly as the Vice Chairman of the Raja Ampat Regency DPRD for two terms, from 2009 to 2015.

During his second term, he boldly took a step further by running for the position of Regent of Raja Ampat in the 2015 regional elections, partnering with Manuel Piter Urbinas. Their courage and smart strategies yielded sweet results, successfully winning the Regent seat for the 2016-2021 term.

Not satisfied with just that, AFU again demonstrated his strength in the subsequent regional elections by teaming up with Orideko Burdam and successfully being re-elected as the Regent of Raja Ampat to this day.

With an impressive political career and rich leadership experience, Abdul Faris has become an irreplaceable figure on the political stage of Southwest Papua.

2. Involvement in the Democratic Party and Social Organizations

Abdul Faris, a figure who is not only active in local government but also carves his path in the political world as the Chairman of the West Papua Democratic Party DPD.

His involvement is not limited to the party; he also leads the Indonesian Young Entrepreneurs Association (HIPMI) in Raja Ampat Regency and serves as the General Treasurer of the Indonesian Muslim Intellectuals Association (ICMI) West Papua.

Together with his partner, Petrus Kasihiuw—Bupati of Teluk Bintuni—Abdul Faris champions the vision as a candidate for the Southwest Papua Governor under the coalition of the Democratic Party, NasDem, PKS, and PSI. Unfortunately, their steps were halted by the decision of the West Southwest Papua KPU, adding drama to their political journey.

3. Chronology of the Cancellation Decision by the West Southwest Papua KPU

The cancellation of Abdul Faris Umlati's candidacy emerged after the recommendation from the West Southwest Papua Bawaslu released on October 28, 2024, marking an important step in the local political landscape.

In the recommendation, Abdul Faris was stated to have violated electoral regulations by appointing several temporary officials, such as Agustinus Weju as the Acting Head of the North Waigeo District and Mathius N Louw as the Acting Head of Kabilol Village in the Mayalibit Tiplol District, which were previously held by Mathius Aitem.

Bawaslu Commissioner, Zatriawati, emphasized that this action contradicts Article 71 paragraphs 2 and 5 of Law Number 10 of 2016. The process involved thorough investigation and clarification with all parties, including Abdul Faris, ultimately leading to a recommendation letter that drew public attention.

4. Legal Rights of the Aggrieved Candidate Partners

The Chairman of the Papua Barat Daya Election Commission, Andarias Kambu, stated that for those who feel aggrieved by this decision, the door to pursue legal action is still wide open. Candidate partners who feel unfairly treated can file a lawsuit with the Supreme Court in Jakarta, in accordance with the applicable regulations.

Although the Election Commission's decision is final, the opportunity to fight for their candidacy remains, and Abdul Faris and his team can file a lawsuit as an effort to review the cancellation.

5. What Are the Reasons for the Cancellation of Abdul Faris Umlati's Candidacy?

The Papua Barat Daya Election Commission has taken decisive action by canceling Abdul Faris's candidacy due to serious administrative violations related to the appointment of interim officials that did not comply with the election regulations.

This decision has shaken the local political landscape, signaling that rules must be enforced to maintain integrity and fairness in the democratic process.

6. Can Abdul Faris Umlati appeal this decision?

Of course, Abdul Faris has the right to file a lawsuit with the Supreme Court, in accordance with existing legal provisions.

This is a legitimate step and provides him the opportunity to fight for his rights before the highest judicial institution.

7. Who is Abdul Faris Umlati's partner in the Southwest Papua gubernatorial election?

Abdul Faris Umlati is now collaborating with Petrus Kasihiuw, who is none other than the current Regent of Teluk Bintuni, in a promising duet to bring change and progress to the region.

8. From which party is Abdul Faris Umlati endorsed?

Abdul Faris is now stepping forward with full confidence after receiving support from four major political forces: the Democratic Party, NasDem, PKS, and PSI.

This diversity of alliances not only demonstrates solidarity but also marks a strategic step in his political journey towards achieving greater success.

(kpl/rmt)