There are many paradoxes in Indonesian politics. For example: The new electoral system is clearly designed to widen the scope for political participation. With the power to elect president and heads of local government placed into the hands of the people through direct elections, now the executive’s position is more powerful in relation to the legislative branch; and the locals’ position is stronger in relation to the national government. But, there are many paradox in Indonesian politics. Direct elections broaden political participation, but the outcome tends to concentrate political power in the hands of the directly elected leaders, who have enhanced legitimacy through direct election. And, there are many other paradoxes. Other example: The nature of electoral rules is full of conflicting choices and indistinct decisions; and so are Indonesian electoral rules. All electoral laws under reformasi were formulated with great purpose to strengthen political parties. The laws granted parties an exclusive authority to determine who will control the dynamics of the country politics. And accordingly, parties hold the privileges to be the backbones in developing the country, determining the government, and formulating the policies.