Absolutism and Misguided Policies: Muhammadiyah and NU's Criticism against Government's Handling of COVID-19A

Abstract

This study examines the role of Islamic Civil Society Organizations (ICSOs), specifically Muhammadiyah and Nahdlatul Ulama (NU), in addressing COVID-19 in Indonesia. In contrast to previous works, it focuses on their constructive criticism against the Indonesian government, which has undergone political absolutism leading to misguided policies in addressing COVID-19 Pandemics. Drawing on theoretical frameworks from Civil Society Organizations, this study shows that the two ICSOs constructively criticized the state for its inadequate, inconsistent, and contradictory policies on handling Covid 19 pandemics caused by political absolutism in the parliament. The results enriched the debate on Islamic Civil Society theories, shedding light on their voluntary and inclusive nature and their intricate relationship with government.