The 2024 Regional Head Election (Pilkada) is a very important moment for democracy in Indonesia. In this Pilkada, a number of regions throughout Indonesia will elect their leaders directly through Pilkada. The public must be wary of all forms of provocation, especially regarding SARA, for the smooth implementation of this Pilkada.
The political atmosphere always heats up before the Pilkada, with various candidates from various backgrounds and political parties competing for public support. Campaigns are carried out with high intensity, where candidates try to convince voters with their vision, programs and track records. Mass media and online platforms have become the main tools for spreading campaign messages, while public debates have become an arena for testing the abilities and integrity of potential leaders.
However, regional elections are not only about political competition. This is also about the people’s decision in determining who is deemed capable of leading the region well, overcoming challenges, and making the community prosperous. Local issues such as infrastructure development, education, health and the environment often take center stage in campaigns. The election process is carried out strictly according to applicable regulations, with high levels of public participation expected to ensure democratic and representative results.
The 2024 regional elections are not only a routine political event, but also a reflection of Indonesia’s democratic maturity. This is an opportunity for the community to elect a leader who they think can bring positive change to their region, as well as to show that the democratic process can run well even though it is faced with various challenges.
SARA (Ethnicity, Religion, Race and Intergroup) provocation ahead of the regional elections is a serious problem that can threaten social stability and security in an area. This is a practice that not only violates the law but also destroys the spirit of togetherness and harmony between citizens. Some of the SARA provocations ahead of the Pilkada that occurred included candidates or their supporters using ethnic, religious or racial issues to influence voters. Such as taking advantage of religious or ethnic differences to create tension between residents. Then there is the spread of false information or hoaxes that cause hatred between groups.
This is done through social media or chain messages. Criticizing political opponents based on aspects such as their ethnicity, religion, or race rather than their leadership qualities and threatening or using violence against groups or individuals based on their identity. We can strengthen people-to-people relations by increasing dialogue between various groups and strengthening tolerance and respect for differences. The government and related institutions also need to act firmly against all forms of provocation in accordance with applicable law.
Tarakan Police Chief, East Kalimantan, AKBP Ronaldo Maradona TPP Siregar said hate speech and hoaxes were of concern to the police ahead of the regional elections. He also hopes that there will be no politicization of identity that leads to SARA.
Deputy Chairman I of the Jayapura Regency DPRD Muhammad Amin said that to become a leader you don’t need to use SARA issues, but how you can sell the program to the community for the next five years. Now is not the time to bring down political opponents by attacking individuals or families, because society has matured to see that, it could actually set a bad precedent for them.
Combating SARA provocations ahead of the regional elections is a task that requires commitment and cooperation from all parties. Elements of the nation must unite to prioritize unity and diversity. As a society that cares about our shared future, we are obliged to reject all forms of provocation that can destroy harmony and peace and believe that diversity is the main strength that enriches us as a nation.
Chairman of the Kendari City National Youth Committee (KNPI), Mohammad Rahman, invited the entire community to maintain unity and unity and always maintain security and order ahead of the 2024 regional elections. The public is also advised not to be provoked by hoax news, hate speech and SARA issues. and completely swallowing information about the regional elections that is spread on social media.
SARA provocation ahead of the Pilkada is not only morally detrimental but can also have a direct negative impact on the social and political life of society. This can divide unity and spark conflict between groups that is difficult to defuse. Therefore, strict law enforcement and collective awareness to avoid this practice are very important in maintaining security and stability ahead of and during the Pilkada.
The 2024 regional elections are a momentum to strengthen our commitment to healthy democracy and strong social harmony. By jointly raising awareness and taking these preventive steps, we can ensure that the regional elections take place peacefully and with integrity, and build a better future for all Indonesian citizens.
Let’s together raise awareness of the dangers of SARA provocation and take preventive steps by checking the veracity of information before spreading it. Hoaxes and fake news that have the potential to cause conflict must be avoided wisely. Social media is often a place for spreading SARA provocations. Combating SARA provocations and bringing Indonesia towards sustainable and inclusive progress for all the nation’s children.