WOMEN’S POLITICAL PARTICIPATION IN LOCAL GOVERNANCE: A CASE STUDY OF MAFTUKAH WIWIN SUBIYONO IN SEMARANG

Abstract

This study examines women's political participation through the case of Maftukah Wiwin Subiyono, a member of Commission D of the Semarang City Regional Representative Council (DPRD). This study aims to analyze her political track record, campaign strategies, and legislative role as a woman fighting in local politics. This study uses Hanna Fenicher Pitkin's theory of political representation to analyze women's representation descriptively, symbolically, and substantively. Using a qualitative descriptive method supported by semi-structured interviews, this study investigates her personal experiences, the socio-cultural and psychological factors that influence her participation, and her efforts to interact with female constituents. The findings show that her success in obtaining a legislative seat stems from a combination of inherited political networks, intensive face-to-face campaigning, and strategic efforts to reach out to women's groups such as the PKK and religious gatherings. As a single mother, her life experiences also shaped her sensitivity to issues faced by women and families, which influenced her legislative focus on health, education, social welfare, and women's empowerment. The study concludes that relational campaign strategies, community engagement, and a gender perspective significantly strengthen women's representation in local governance.