By Janitra Arya )*
The 2024 Regional Head Election (Pilkada) is an important milestone in the journey of democracy in Indonesia. By involving hundreds of regions throughout the country, this process not only reflects the dynamics of local politics, but also tests the ability of all elements of society to maintain stability, peace, and political maturity. In a situation full of differences and competition, maintaining a conducive atmosphere during the Pilkada process, including in resolving disputes, is a shared responsibility.
The Constitutional Court (MK), as an institution tasked with resolving disputes over regional election results, has demonstrated its commitment to maintaining justice and transparency. Head of Public Relations and Protocol Bureau Pan Mohamad Faiz said that one of the steps taken by the Constitutional Court was to ensure that Constitutional Court judges did not handle cases from their home regions. This policy was taken to avoid potential conflicts of interest that could harm public trust in the decisions taken. In addition, the Constitutional Court has also set a proportional trial schedule and in accordance with the 45-day working deadline as stipulated in Constitutional Court Regulation Number 14 of 2024. These steps reflect the seriousness of the Constitutional Court in ensuring that the legal process runs fairly and on time.
A total of 310 Pilkada dispute cases have been registered by the Constitutional Court, consisting of 23 cases related to gubernatorial elections, 238 cases of regents, and 49 cases of mayors. This number shows the great responsibility of the Constitutional Court in handling disputes that occur in various regions. Therefore, the role of the Constitutional Court is very crucial in maintaining the integrity of democracy in Indonesia. Fair and transparent dispute resolution will ensure that the results of the 2024 Pilkada truly reflect the will of the people. Therefore, the public is expected to fully support the legal process carried out by the Constitutional Court and accept every decision taken as a form of maturity in democracy.
Deputy Chairman of Commission II of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Bahtra Banong, also reminded the importance of maintaining the constitutionality of the law in resolving Pilkada disputes. He emphasized that the Constitutional Court must adhere to the principles stipulated in the constitution in deciding each case. Fair and consistent law enforcement will not only strengthen the democratic system, but also provide a sense of justice for all parties involved. In addition, Bahtra also appealed to all parties to respect the Constitutional Court’s decision as part of a joint effort to maintain political and social stability. This attitude reflects the nation’s political maturity in responding to the results of the Pilkada.
On the other hand, the role of security forces is also very important in ensuring that the situation remains conducive during and after the Pilkada process. The South Sulawesi Police Chief, Inspector General Pol. Yudhiawan, appreciated the hard work of the security forces in securing the implementation of the simultaneous Pilkada in his region. Yudhiawan also emphasized the importance of proper and procedural law enforcement to resolve various problems that may arise. Therefore, good cooperation between security forces, election organizers, and the community is the key to creating a safe and peaceful atmosphere.
In addition, the public is also urged to appreciate and support the security forces who have worked hard to maintain security and order during all stages of the Pilkada. The security carried out, starting from securing logistics to the vote counting process, deserves to be appreciated as a form of real contribution in supporting democracy.
These security efforts should also be extended to the inauguration process of the elected regional heads later. With the support of the community, security forces can continue to carry out their duties optimally, so that the transition of leadership in the region can take place without disruption. The peace that is maintained until the end of the Pilkada stages is proof that all elements of the nation are able to work together to realize a healthy democracy.
Indonesia has its own challenges in managing differences in political views. These differences often become a source of friction, especially when political competition heats up. It is therefore important for all elements of society, including candidate pairs, supporting teams, and the general public, to maintain a peaceful atmosphere during and after the regional election process. Dispute resolution must be carried out through established legal channels, and all parties must be prepared to accept the results with an open heart.
Political education for the community is also important to reduce the potential for conflict. Awareness of the importance of healthy democracy needs to be continuously instilled so that each individual is able to respond to differences of opinion wisely. The Pilkada process is not only about winning seats of power, but also about how to build consensus and work together for the progress of the region and the nation.
Ultimately, the resolution of Pilkada disputes is an inseparable part of a healthy democratic process. The MK’s commitment to carrying out its duties professionally, supported by mature public participation and alert security forces, is the foundation for creating a peaceful and credible Pilkada. With the spirit of unity and collective awareness, the 2024 Pilkada can be a momentum for Indonesia to show that democracy is not just about winning or losing, but also about how a nation manages differences with a responsible attitude.
)* the author is an observer of democracy