Local governments are on the front line of delivering social welfare services and development programmes. However low bureaucratic capacity or funding can undermine their responsiveness to public needs, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Effective political leadership is essential to drive positive change.

Indonesia has conducted an ambitious experiment in decentralisation. The introduction of direct elections for local government leaders in 2005 created a new generation of reformist politicians. They faced a complex environment of political pressure and bureaucratic culture. Some have succeeded, while others have failed. How can reformist leaders get elected, and how can they overcome the challenges of leading reforms?