Religious leaders throughout Indonesia have reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining a conducive atmosphere ahead of the 2024 Simultaneous Regional Elections.
The Interfaith Harmony Forum (FKUB) of Central Sulawesi Province held a joint declaration with religious figures from all recognized religions in Indonesia, to realize the implementation of simultaneous Pilkada that is harmonious and peaceful.
The Head of the FKUB of Central Sulawesi Province, Professor H. Zainal Abidin, said that the regional elections are a community need that is part of the democratic process.
“This Pilkada belongs to all of us, so it is in the interest of FKUB to make the 2024 Pilkada a success. Without security and harmony, it is very difficult to achieve a quality Pilkada,” said Zainal.
In the same place, the chairman of the Dewa declaration event committee, Doni Afriadi, said that maintaining harmony amidst differences in ethnicity, religion, race, and between groups is very important amidst the 2024 Simultaneous Regional Elections. This event is to build awareness of all parties to reject identity politics, politicization of religion, use of places of worship for campaigns, and the practice of money politics.
“This event aims to prevent various forms of misinformation, hoaxes, black campaigns, and hate speech that can threaten social harmony,” explained Dewa Doni.
Meanwhile in North Sumatra, the Head of the North Sumatra Regional Office of the Ministry of Religion, Ahmad Qosbi, said that his party invited religious figures to convey moral messages to their respective congregations in order to maintain harmony during the regional elections.
“Harmony must be built on the basis of tolerance, mutual respect, and respect for differences. We appeal to religious leaders to convey a message of peace and reject all forms of provocation that can break unity,” said Ahmad Qosbi.
These religious figures are not only pioneers in maintaining peace, but are also committed to avoiding practices that can damage unity, such as black campaigns and money politics. With collaboration from all parties, it is hoped that the 2024 simultaneous Pilkada can run harmoniously, peacefully, and provide benefits for all Indonesian people.