The State Versus Local Elite Conflict in A Transitional Phase of Democracy

Analyzing the root of conflict in the practice of decentralization and transfer of authority from the State to Nagari, it turns out that Nagari has been “framed” by the State (provincial and district government) to perform its tasks regardless of the original culture and characteristics of the local community as is stated in Law No. 32 of 2004 concerning the Local Government. Nagari in West Sumatera is still a matter to be discussed, with elaborative variables of social stratification and model of kinship and the notably diverse political system (kelarasan koto piliang and bodi chaniago) enriching Nagari with analysis of its democratic transition history, model of participation and model of intervention by the State along the time.