Legal Review of the Extension of the Term of Office of Village Heads Following the Issuance of Law Number 3 of 2024 Concerning Villages

This study aims to examine the legal aspects related to the addition of the term of office of the Village Head after the issuance of Law Number 3 of 2024 concerning Villages. This regulatory change has significant implications for village government management, especially in terms of leadership stability and development continuity at the local level. This study uses a normative legal method with a statutory approach and analysis of related legal documents. The results of the study indicate that changes in the regulation of the term of office of village heads regulated through Law Number 3 of 2024, which extends the term of office to 8 years with a maximum limit of two terms, aims to create a balance between stability and leadership regeneration at the village level. This policy provides more time for village heads to design and implement long-term development programs, which have the potential to increase productivity, policy consistency, and public trust. In addition, term extension can reduce costs and administrative disruptions related to elections, allowing for more efficient allocation of village budgets. However, there are significant risks related to the accumulation of power, potential abuse of power and funds , and social jealousy in the community if not accompanied by strict oversight mechanisms and transparency. Thus, while this policy can improve the stability of village governance, it is important to ensure effective controls to minimize negative impacts and maximize benefits.