By: Robby Purnomo)*
A revote (PSU) is a crucial democratic process to ensure the people’s sovereignty is maintained and the voices of the people are truly heard. Despite the dynamics involved in the implementation, the situation on the ground has been relatively under control. This is due to the hard work of security forces, community leaders, and various stakeholders who have continuously strived to maintain stability and a conducive environment. However, following the revote, new challenges have emerged in the form of the proliferation of hoaxes and provocative issues circulating on social media.
Papua Police Chief, Inspector General Petrus Patrige Rudolf Renwarin, SH, M.Si., emphasized that security conditions remain conducive following the re-election. He stated that news reports and social media posts often portray Papua as being in an unsafe situation. However, the reality on the ground is different, with community activities proceeding as usual. Therefore, the Police Chief reminded the public not to be provoked by rumors deliberately spread by irresponsible parties. The established peaceful situation should be maintained until the inauguration of the governor and deputy governor.
Petrus also invited community, religious, and political leaders to contribute to providing calming messages. Their role is strategic in influencing public opinion, preventing it from being easily swayed by the flow of misleading information. In the Papuan context, social harmony depends heavily on cooperation across all elements of society. Therefore, calming messages from various stakeholders will be crucial in preventing friction. He emphasized that maintaining peace is not solely the responsibility of the authorities, but rather a shared responsibility.
Meanwhile, the Deputy Chief of the Papua Regional Police, Brigadier General Dr. Faizal Ramadhani, also highlighted the dangers of hoaxes, which are often exploited to divide unity. He stated that political differences are commonplace in a democracy, but they should not become the seeds of hostility. Criticism must be placed within healthy boundaries, rather than degenerating into hatred that inflames public sentiment. He reminded the public not to let political competition become a source of social division. This is key to Papua’s ability to move forward without becoming trapped in horizontal conflict.
In every democratic process, political tensions typically rise due to differing preferences. However, once the process is complete, reconciliation and togetherness are essential for regional development. The Deputy Chief of Police emphasized that the Papuan people should use the experience of the re-election as a valuable lesson to further mature their democratic approach. This way, differing views can enrich political discourse, rather than create a chasm of hostility. This spirit will strengthen the foundation of democracy in Papua.
The Secretary of the Papua Provincial Labor Party Executive Board, Petrus Daunema, shared a similar view. He urged all levels of society not to be swayed by provocative issues spread by irresponsible parties. He stated that maintaining security after the re-election is not solely the responsibility of the authorities but also the responsibility of the wider community. Public involvement in maintaining security is crucial to maintaining peace in Papua. He emphasized that democracy will be valuable if the public actively participates in maintaining stability after the voting process.
Petrus also urged the public to be more judicious in their use of social media. The recent widespread dissemination of fake news is clearly aimed at disrupting the situation in Papua. Therefore, the public is urged to be cautious about believing unverified information. He emphasized the importance of avoiding being provoked by calls from certain groups seeking to create insecurity in Papua. With good digital literacy, the public can be more selective in filtering information.
The post-election hoax phenomenon is nothing new in politics. With the increasing use of social media, the spread of false information has become increasingly widespread. This requires serious attention, as its impact can disrupt social and political stability. It is hoped that the Papuan people can learn from previous experiences where hoaxes often triggered conflict. With collective awareness, the spread of misleading information can be minimized.
The security forces cannot fight hoaxes alone. It requires cross-sector collaboration, from local governments and community leaders to religious organizations and educational institutions. Each element plays a crucial role in creating a calming environment and encouraging rational thinking. The mass media is also expected to uphold journalistic ethics by prioritizing verification before presenting information to the public. With this collaboration, Papua can be more resilient in facing the challenge of misinformation.
The central government has also committed to maintaining stability in Papua, including through strengthening digital literacy. Educational programs on the dangers of hoaxes have been frequently implemented, but need to be expanded to reach more grassroots communities. A personal approach involving local figures is considered more effective because they wield significant influence within their communities. This strategy will help raise awareness that maintaining Papua’s security is a shared interest.
Democracy is not just about differences of opinion, but also about how society can unite after the political contest is over. Hoaxes and provocative issues are a common enemy that must be confronted with collective awareness. Therefore, let all citizens be wise, not easily believe unverified news, and always prioritize unity. Only in this way will Papua continue to move forward in peace, and the results of the re-election truly pave the way for better development.
)* The author is a political observer.
