Analisis fenomena Patron-Klien pada pemilihan Pangulu Nagori di Bahapal Raya, Kecamatan Raya, Simalungun, Sumatera Utara pada tahun 2023

Abstract

This thesis examines the phenomenon of patron-client relations in the election process of Pangulu Nagori (village head) in Bahapal Raya, Raya Subdistrict, Simalungun Regency, North Sumatra. The main focus of this research is the victory of Agus Harianto Purba in the 2023 Pilpanag (village head election), which was significantly influenced by the strong patron-client relationship between him as the patron and the local community as clients. This study employs a qualitative approach using descriptive-analytical methods to illustrate how Agus Harianto Purba utilized the patron-client relationship as a strategy to secure his victory in the Pangulu Nagori election in Bahapal Raya. The findings reveal that the practice of patron-client politics at the village level serves as an effective strategy for gaining community support, especially in economically dependent areas where local actors possess power and resources. This phenomenon indicates a tendency toward transactional politics that may weaken the quality of local democracy. However, it also reflects the deeply rooted social structures and cultural norms within the community. This study concludes that the patron-client relationship was a crucial factor in Agus Harianto Purba’s electoral success in the 2023 Pilpanag.