By: Haikal Fathan Akbar )*
The Regional Head Elections (Pilkada) which will be held simultaneously on November 27, 2024 are not just a five-yearly political ritual. This is an important moment for the community to actively participate in determining the future direction of their region. However, there is a real threat that always haunts every democratic event, namely golput or not using the right to vote.
Avoiding golput is a shared responsibility that must be emphasized so that the 2024 Pilkada runs with maximum participation, which in turn will produce leaders who truly represent the aspirations of the people.
The Commissioner of the KPU Division of Sosdiklih, Parmas, and SDM, Mohammad Makhsun, emphasized the importance of massive socialization to prevent golput. In this effort, the KPU does not work alone. They collaborate with various parties, both government and non-government, to disseminate information about the importance of participating in the Pilkada. The media is also an important partner in spreading this message.
Efforts made by the KPU include a mascot parade for the Pilkada, various competitions, and mobilizing all levels of PPK, PPS, and others. Although the number of polling stations (TPS) is still not final, the KPU continues to monitor and consider all possibilities to ensure easy access for voters.
The decrease in the number of TPS and the smaller number of election participants compared to the Legislative and Presidential Elections are indeed challenges in themselves. However, this should not be a reason to abstain from voting. In fact, this is the time for us to show that our active participation can make a difference.
In addition to technical challenges, another issue that is no less important in the Pilkada is the neutrality of the security forces. In the Pilkada, this neutrality is not only a matter of political stance, but also about how the apparatus maintains justice and order during the election process.
The Head of the South Sulawesi Regional Police (Kapolda), Inspector General Pol Andi Rian R Djajadi, has firmly stated the police’s commitment to maintaining neutrality in the 2024 Pilkada.
During his working visit to Jeneponto Regency, Inspector General Andi Rian R Djajadi emphasized that the Police will remain neutral and not side with any candidate. This neutrality, according to him, is a principle that must be maintained to ensure that the democratic process runs smoothly.
In addition, the police also play an active role in maintaining security and comfort during the Pilkada by holding the Mantap Praja Pallawa operation, which began on August 1, 2024.
This operation aims to ensure that all stages of the Pilkada run smoothly without any significant disruption. The Police, together with the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and local governments, work together to oversee the election process so that the public can channel their political aspirations calmly and safely.
This is a preventive step taken to ensure that the 2024 Pilkada is not only successful in its implementation, but also in maintaining security stability in the region.
In the context of the Pilkada, differences in political choices are commonplace. However, what often becomes a problem is how society responds to these differences. Inspector General Andi Rian R Djajadi is aware of the potential for social friction due to differences in choices.
Therefore, he emphasized the importance of maintaining friendship and brotherhood amid differences. The Pilkada is not a reason to break the bonds of brotherhood or damage good relations that have been established for a long time.
Different choices should not be a source of conflict, but rather should be a place to learn about mature democracy. Inspector General Andi Rian R Djajadi invited the public to make choices based on their conscience, without pressure and while maintaining peace. This is the essence of a healthy democracy, where everyone has the right to vote without feeling intimidated or threatened by any party.
In addition, Inspector General Andi Rian R Djajadi also hopes that people who have met the requirements as voters will not abstain from voting. According to him, abstaining is a choice that will harm oneself and society as a whole.
By not using their right to vote, people are the same as giving up the opportunity to choose a leader who can bring positive change to their region. Therefore, he invited the entire community to come to the TPS and cast their votes on election day.
Abstaining, or choosing not to vote, is an action that is often considered a form of protest or dissatisfaction with the existing candidates. However, in political reality, abstaining will only magnify the problem, not solve it.
When votes are not used, it is the same as handing over the decision to someone else. Golput means giving up one’s responsibilities as a good citizen and turning a blind eye to the future of the region.
The 2024 Pilkada offers an opportunity for the community to be part of the solution. By exercising their right to vote, every citizen has the power to determine who will lead them in the future. The leader chosen is not only a reflection of personal choice, but also a reflection of the collective hopes and aspirations of the community.
Avoiding abstention is the first step to realizing a quality Pilkada. With high participation, the results of the Pilkada will better represent the voice of the people. This is the path to a stronger, more inclusive, and more responsive government to the needs of the community.
Therefore, let us exercise our right to vote in the 2024 Pilkada and be part of positive change. Don’t let this opportunity pass us by without our contribution.
)* The author is a contributor to the Vimedia Pratama Institute