By: Andhika Wicaksana )*
The 2024 simultaneous regional head elections (Pilkada) are one of the important moments in Indonesian democracy. Behind the hustle and bustle of political preparations, there is one element that is no less important and often determines the creation of social stability, namely the role of religious figures.
In this context, the Papuan People’s Assembly (MRP) through the Chairperson of the Religious Working Group (Pokja), Frits Mambrasar, called for the importance of active involvement of religious leaders in ensuring that the regional elections run peacefully.
This call is not just a moral call, but a concrete step that can have a big impact on the success and smoothness of the democratic process, especially in areas prone to conflict.
In every Pilkada, differences in political choices often become a source of tension. However, this is where the role of religious figures is needed to maintain order. Religious figures have great influence in their communities, whether through the pulpit in churches, mosques, temples, or monasteries.
Sermons that call for peace and unity can be a calming factor amidst political tensions. Therefore, religious figures in Papua, as conveyed by Frits Mambrasar, are expected to be at the forefront in conveying messages of peace and maintaining social harmony.
Frits firmly stated that the role of religious leaders is not only to guide people to choose wisely, but also to prevent social conflicts that can damage relations between fellow citizens.
Although the Pilkada only lasts for a moment, its social impact can last a long time. Therefore, the Papuan people are asked to maintain harmony, even though they have different political choices. The people are urged to support the regional head candidates in a peaceful manner and uphold brotherhood.
It is no secret that regional elections are often crucial moments that are prone to triggering social conflict. Differences in choice can quickly turn into divisions, especially if there are parties who deliberately take advantage of the situation to spread hoaxes and provocative issues. This is where the role of religious figures becomes very vital.
Rokan Hulu Police Chief, Senior Commissioner Budi Setiyono, in a ‘Friday Curhat’ event stated that one of the biggest threats in the Pilkada is the spread of false information or hoaxes. Hoaxes that are spread with the aim of dividing society often ignite conflicts that could actually be avoided.
In a situation like this, Budi invited religious and traditional leaders to act immediately if they find signs of social conflict. Not only calming down, but also having to quickly resolve the problem before it escalates.
Budi emphasized that the public must be aware of black campaigns that may circulate during the Pilkada period. Fake news and issues manipulated for certain purposes are very easy to spread, especially with the existence of social media.
Therefore, religious figures are expected to be emotional dampeners and guardians of social harmony. They are expected to help spread positive and peaceful messages, while reminding people not to be influenced by negative issues that are not necessarily true.
In addition to religious figures, traditional figures also have an equally important role in maintaining peace during the Pilkada process. In some areas, the role of traditional figures often overlaps with religious figures, because both are equally respected and considered moral leaders. In Rambah Samo District, community and traditional figures were invited by the Rokan Hulu Police Chief to participate in maintaining security and order during the Pilkada.
Budi Setiyono reiterated the importance of synergy between security forces, community leaders, and religious leaders to anticipate potential conflicts. Their role is not only to provide advice, but also to be a bridge of communication between residents and authorities. Thus, potential conflicts can be immediately suppressed before they become bigger problems.
One of the biggest challenges in the Pilkada is not only maintaining security, but also preventing the practice of money politics that can damage the integrity of democracy. The Chief of the Lirik Police Sector (Kapolsek), Iptu Endang Kusma Jaya, in a gathering event at the Nurul Hidayah Mosque, Lirik District, delivered an important message about the dangers of money politics. Religious figures have an important role in educating the public about the negative impacts of money politics on the democratic process.
Money politics not only damages the quality of the Pilkada, but also creates leaders who lack integrity. Therefore, the Kapolsek invited religious leaders to play an active role in reminding the people not to be tempted by material promises. Instead, the public is asked to use their voting rights wisely, choosing leaders who are truly capable of bringing positive change to the region.
Pilkada is a real manifestation of democracy that must be maintained together. Religious and traditional leaders are expected to be mediators, coolants, and protectors of society from conflicts that may arise. The call to vote wisely, maintain social harmony, and reject money politics are important messages that must continue to be echoed until the Pilkada process is complete.
In the end, the success of the Pilkada is not only measured by who is elected, but by how the process runs peacefully, democratically, and maintains unity in the community. Let’s work together to realize a safe, peaceful, and cool Pilkada for a better future for the region and nation.
)* Political Observer Gala Indomedia
