Indonesian Election Commission’s Political Communication during COVID-19 Pandemic: Case Study in the 2020 Denpasar Mayor Election

Objectives: This study aims to elucidate the political communication organized by the Denpasar City General Election Commission (KPU) during the 2020 Denpasar Mayor Election. Methods: Employing a qualitative approach, this research involves observation, surveys of Denpasar residents, and in-depth interviews with key sources. Results: The findings reveal that the Denpasar City KPU led the political communication efforts, supported by organizing teams at the sub-district and village levels, as well as the village government. The messages conveyed included election logistics, preferred leadership qualities, and health protocols, all aimed at ensuring voters' secure voting rights. These messages were disseminated through both traditional and digital channels, including interpersonal and mass communication. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, digital media emerged as the primary channel for political communication across various groups. However, this communication strategy did not significantly increase public political engagement, due to factors such as candidate dynamics, the impact of the pandemic, and the culturally diverse community's varying interest in politics. Conclusions: This study highlights the role of the pandemic in enhancing collaboration between central election institutions and community-based bodies. In this context, the key factor for successful political communication during political events is the digital literacy of diverse stakeholders.