Regional Head Elections (Pilkada) are an important element in the democratic system in Indonesia. Through Pilkada, the community has the opportunity to elect a leader who will lead their region for a certain period. Regional elections are not only a means of electing leaders, but are also an important mechanism in strengthening democracy and the civilization of a cultured society.
Pilkada is a forum for community participation in politics. This participation is not only limited to voting, but is also involved in the campaign process, public debate and monitoring of the regional elections. Active community participation is an indicator of healthy democracy in a region. When people are actively involved, they become more aware of their rights and obligations as citizens.
The five-year democratic celebration in Indonesia has not yet ended after holding the Presidential Election (Pilpres) and Legislative Election (Pilleg) in February 2024. The next stage is simultaneous regional elections in all provinces, districts and cities in Indonesia which will be held in November 2024.
One of the impacts that often arises from democratic parties held directly is polarization in society. This polarization often leaves scars and is protracted due to ongoing contestation. Cultural figure and founder of the West Java Cultural Council, Asep Ridwan H Wiranata, highlighted that prolonged polarization after the democratic party could have a negative impact on national and state life.
To anticipate this impact, the role of government is very important. Apart from that, all parties, including perpetrators, law enforcers, organizers and the community, must have a shared spirit in creating a cool democratic party. Awareness of the importance of unity and harmonious relationships in society is the key to restoring unity and unity.
A similar statement was also conveyed by the Chair of the Lanny Jaya Traditional Community Institution (LMA), Tias Urnom Kogoya, who said that Pilkada is a democratic party which is held once every five years and this is also one way that all regions of Indonesia that hold Pilkada can continue to be better, so that activities it should be interpreted with joy and peace.
The public is also expected to be smart in receiving information during the election, so that they are not easily provoked. Choosing a leader who is smart and upholds cultural values is also an important factor. Smart leaders will not only bring a smart society into the future, but will also maintain unity and integrity through respect for cultural values.
By choosing intelligent and cultured leaders, it is hoped that intelligent human resources can be formed and a culture of unity and unity will be maintained in society. Good political education and cultural awareness are important foundations in maintaining harmony after the democratic party in Indonesia.
The regional election process is also a reflection of the civilization of a civilized society. A cultured society is one that is able to carry out the democratic process peacefully, without violence, and respecting each other’s differences. In the context of regional elections, cultured people are those who can accept the election results gracefully, even if the candidate they support is not elected.
Successful regional elections also require support from various parties, including the government, political parties and civil society organizations. The government must provide adequate facilities and budget for the implementation of regional elections. Political parties must support candidates who are qualified and have integrity. Civil society organizations can play a role in monitoring the running of regional elections and providing political education to the public.
The regional elections are also a momentum for the emergence of innovative and progressive young leaders. Young leaders often bring new ideas and fresh approaches to government. They are more adaptive to change and closer to the younger generation who make up a large part of the voting population.
Apart from that, there are challenges that must be faced, namely the issue of primordialism, such as ethnicity, religion, race and intergroup (SARA). This issue is often exploited by certain parties to gain support in unethical ways. Society must be alert and not get caught up in identity politics which can divide unity.
Regional elections also face challenges in terms of security. Security threats such as riots and intimidation can disrupt the running of the regional elections. Therefore, security forces must be alert and cooperate with all parties to maintain order and security during the Pilkada process.
Successful regional elections will produce leaders who are legitimate and have a strong mandate from the people. Leaders who are elected through a good democratic process will be more responsive to the needs of the community and more responsible in carrying out their duties.
In conclusion, regional elections have a very important role in strengthening democracy and the civilization of a cultured society. Through Pilkada, people can actively participate in politics, elect accountable leaders, and undergo a democratic process peacefully. Support from various parties and the use of information technology will further strengthen the Pilkada process. Challenges such as money politics, SARA issues and security must be overcome with strong cooperation from all parties. In this way, Pilkada can truly be a means of strengthening democracy and civilization of cultured society in Indonesia.
