By: Putri Saraswati )*
Regional Head Elections (Pilkada) are one of the important pillars in Indonesia’s democratic system, where people have the opportunity to choose regional leaders who will influence the development and welfare of their respective regions. Every vote cast in the Pilkada greatly influences the legitimacy of the elected leader and the direction of regional policy. However, in the midst of this process, there are still challenges that need to be overcome, one of which is the Golput phenomenon, where some people choose not to use their right to vote. This phenomenon not only weakens democracy, but also threatens the sustainability of a healthy and representative government.
Not exercising the right to vote or golput, is often seen as an apathetic attitude that can weaken the legitimacy of elected leaders. When the majority of the community does not participate in the election, the results of the regional elections tend to be dominated by the votes of an active minority, so that the elected leader may not represent the majority of the wishes of the citizens. This condition can reduce the quality of democracy and lead to leaders who are less constitutional.
On the other hand, rejecting Golput is an effort to strengthen democracy. Every vote cast has the potential to bring positive change. By being involved in the election process, the community can ensure that the elected leader is someone who is truly able to represent the aspirations of the community and is committed to advancing the region. Active participation in the Pilkada also provides an opportunity to avoid money politics or vote manipulation, because the community is more involved in overseeing the election process.
To increase participation in the Pilkada, various initiatives have been carried out by the police and community leaders. The Makassae Harbor Police Chief, AKBP Restu Wijayanto, invited the community to use their voting rights. The Police Chief emphasized the importance of active participation in determining regional leaders. The community was emphasized that one vote means a lot for the future of the region. This invitation illustrates the importance of each individual not to miss their respective voting rights.
In addition to voting, maintaining security and order during the Pilkada period is also a shared responsibility. The Makassar Harbor Police emphasized that the community does not only play a role as voters, but also as guardians of a safe and conducive atmosphere during the election process. The community must be present at the TPS and help maintain a peaceful and quality Pilkada. This step was taken to ensure that the Pilkada not only runs smoothly, but is also free from disturbances that can hinder the democratic process.
Meanwhile, Rokan Hulu Police Chief, AKBP Budi Setiyono, also invited students, new voters and the general public to reject Golput. Budi emphasized the importance of maintaining conduciveness during the 2024 simultaneous Pilkada. Budi also emphasized that the role of students and community leaders is very much needed to oversee the Pilkada so that it takes place honestly and fairly, without any money politics or provocation. In this message, it is clear that the role of all elements of society is very important in maintaining the smoothness and integrity of the Pilkada.
Active participation in the Pilkada is not only a right, but also a moral obligation of citizens. By using their right to vote, the community helps determine the direction of policies and development that will be implemented by the elected leader. Voters who are aware of the importance of the community’s right to vote will tend to be more critical in choosing leaders who truly have the competence and vision to advance the region, compared to choosing based on prejudice or identity.
In a separate location, the Chairperson of the Central Papua General Election Commission (KPU), Jennifer Darling Tabuni, said that her party continues to intensify socialization to the public to participate in the 2024 Pilkada. Her party also continues to appeal to the public to come to the polling stations because abstaining from voting is not a wise choice.
The 2024 Pilkada is an important moment to strengthen democracy at the local level. By rejecting Golput, the community can play an active role in determining leaders who will bring positive change to their respective regions. Using the right to vote is an important form of responsibility in a democratic system, while maintaining security and order during the election process will ensure a quality and peaceful Pilkada.
Ultimately, rejecting Golput is part of a commitment to building a better democracy. A healthy democracy requires active participation from all levels of society, not just a handful of people. By exercising their right to vote, every individual contributes to determining the future of the region and the nation. Don’t let Golput become a barrier to creating a representative and responsible government. Every voice matters, and every voice has the power to bring about change.
Therefore, let’s together reject Golput and actively participate in the 2024 Pilkada. Use your voting rights wisely and choose leaders who are committed to developing the region and serving the community. Only with the active participation of all elements of society can democracy grow and develop for the better.
)* Political World Observer
