A surprising, yet important, figure exists in the development of democracy in Indonesia, as it emerges from its authoritarian past. This figure is the botoh, who plays a significant role in democratic transition. Its popularity is inseparable from its expertise in mobilizing the masses in local and national political contestations through a system of cultural support networks. The term botoh comes from the Javanese language and carries the meaning of a “gambler” (Diknas, 2002). In earlier times, the term referred to gamblers in cockfighting rings. Over time, botoh has migrated from these traditional gambling arenas into the overtly political arena of village head elections. It began soon after the issuance of new regulations concerning the direct election of village chiefs (Law No. 5 of 1974). © The Editor(s) (if applicable) and The Author(s) 2023. This book is an open access publication.