THE INFLUENCE OF INFORMATION SYSTEMS AND PUBLIC POLITICAL PARTICIPATION ON THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE IMPLEMENTATION OF REGIONAL HEAD ELECTIONS IN THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC ERA

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic prompted new approaches in organizing regional elections, emphasizing the use of information systems to reduce infection rates and improve election management effectiveness. In this context, the Regional Election Commission set high public political participation as a critical success measure. This study employed a quantitative approach, using a Slovin formula sample size of 402 respondents with a 95% confidence level. The research utilized a Likert scale, covering 12 items on information systems, 21 on political participation, and 12 on election effectiveness. The data were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) via LISREL software, focusing on determining the relationships between information systems, political participation, and election implementation effectiveness. Results indicated that information systems had a positive yet statistically insignificant effect on election effectiveness (T-value = 0.79, below the threshold of 1.96). However, political participation showed a significant positive impact (T-value = 6.79, exceeding 1.96), underscoring its role as a crucial factor in achieving effective election outcomes during the pandemic. These findings highlight the importance of public engagement in regional elections, particularly when leveraging information technology in crisis contexts.