By: Deka Prawira)*
Ahead of the 2024 Simultaneous Regional Elections, the role of security forces is the main key in ensuring the implementation of a peaceful and conducive democratic party. Facing this major challenge, synergy between the TNI, Polri, local governments, and all elements of society is essential.
Without solid cooperation, it is difficult to imagine that the Pilkada can take place safely from potential disturbances. Solid collaboration between various parties is expected to not only be able to maintain security during the Pilkada, but also create a stable atmosphere long before the voting takes place.
North Sulawesi Police Chief, Inspector General Pol Roycke Harry Langie, revealed that security forces in North Sulawesi are ready to face the 2024 Pilkada. TNI and Polri personnel in the region have shown solidarity in preparing for security. The joint crowd control exercise that was carried out showed the readiness of the apparatus in facing various situations that may arise.
This step is not only a symbol of solid collaboration between the two institutions, but also provides confidence to the public that the Pilkada process will run smoothly. As expressed by the Regional Police Chief, North Sulawesi is currently in a conducive condition and will continue to be maintained until the Pilkada is over.
More than 5,000 to 6,000 personnel have been prepared by the North Sulawesi Regional Police with the assistance of the XIII/Merdeka Military Command. This number shows how serious the security forces are in ensuring that the Pilkada runs smoothly. This collaboration not only includes the number of personnel, but also a security strategy designed to respond to escalating situations.
Every layer of the security strategy has been carefully prepared, from routine patrols to preparing reserve troops if needed. All of this is to ensure that the public can exercise their right to vote without any fear of security disturbances.
The neutrality of the apparatus in the Pilkada is also an important issue emphasized by the North Sulawesi Police Chief. Neutrality is the key to ensuring that the public continues to believe in the ongoing democratic process. The Police Chief emphasized that all Polri personnel under his command have been ordered to maintain neutrality during the Pilkada.
The police, as stipulated in the law, do not have the right to vote, and this is the basis for the security forces’ commitment not to be involved in practical politics. Thus, the public can be calmer and more focused in choosing a leader who meets their expectations.
Meanwhile, Commander of XIII/Merdeka Military Region Major General Candra Wijaya also expressed the same commitment from the TNI. The Commander explained that the TNI has taken preventive measures to ensure the situation remains safe ahead of the Pilkada. One of the efforts made is to provide an appeal to the public to maintain peace during the Pilkada process.
According to the Pangdam, with thorough preparation, a conducive atmosphere can be maintained until the Pilkada is over. Collaboration between the TNI and Polri has also been strengthened through various joint exercises and routine patrols. This is expected to prevent potential disturbances that may arise.
Security in the Pilkada is not solely the responsibility of the authorities. The local government also has an equally important role in maintaining order and security during the Pilkada process. Acting Mayor of Palangka Raya, Hera Nugrahayu, emphasized the importance of synergy between the government, DPRD, and the community in maintaining a conducive situation.
Security is not only needed on election day, but also long before that, to keep the atmosphere safe and comfortable. Without security, the government will not run optimally and public services will be disrupted. Therefore, Hera invites all elements of society to actively participate in maintaining the security of the surrounding environment.
According to Hera, security is a shared responsibility, not just the task of security forces. Every individual in society has a role to play in maintaining order and tranquility, especially in sensitive situations such as the Pilkada. Collaboration between the community and legislative institutions is essential to ensure that government programs run smoothly.
Active community participation in monitoring the progress of development and providing constructive input will contribute to regional stability. Moreover, Hera reminded the importance of increasing collective awareness to maintain security, especially in the midst of a heated political situation such as the Pilkada.
The peaceful and conducive atmosphere expected during the Pilkada cannot be realized without the spirit of togetherness from all parties. Security forces such as the TNI and Polri have shown their readiness to maintain security, and collaboration with the government and the community will further strengthen this effort.
Success in maintaining security during the Pilkada is not only the responsibility of the authorities, but also all parties involved. We all have a role in ensuring that this democratic process runs well, without disruption, and provides the best results for the future of the region and the nation.
Therefore, let us together maintain a conducive atmosphere ahead of the 2024 Simultaneous Regional Elections. With synergy between security forces, the government, and the community, we can ensure that the Regional Elections run safely, peacefully, and produce leaders who are able to bring positive changes to their respective regions. Let’s make this Regional Election a momentum to strengthen unity, maintain stability, and ensure a better democratic future for all of us.
)* The author is a contributor to Pertiwi Institute