Sharia Narratives as Identity Politics Strategies of Local Parties in Aceh’s 2024 Provincial Democratic Election Context
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.64323/jgps.v2i2.51Keywords:
Sharia Narrative, Identity Politics, Electoral Strategy, Local Parties, 2024 Aceh ElectionAbstract
This study aims to analyze the use of Sharia Islam narratives as a strategy of identity politics by local parties in the 2024 general elections in Aceh. Employing a qualitative approach through literature-based research, this study draws on Manuel Castells’ theory of identity politics and Gary Cox’s theory of electoral strategy to examine how religious narratives are constructed and mobilized within political campaigns. The findings reveal that local parties in Aceh strategically employ Islamic symbols, including Sharia rhetoric and affiliations with religious figures, to build collective identity and strengthen emotional ties with voters. This narrative strategy proves effective in garnering support from religious communities, particularly dayah networks and traditionalist groups. However, excessive reliance on Sharia narratives also risks triggering social polarization and undermining the substance of public policy discourse. The gap between campaign rhetoric and post-election policy implementation has led to growing public disillusionment. Therefore, this study emphasizes the importance of aligning ideological narratives with responsive policy agendas as a key to fostering an inclusive and just local democracy.
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