By: Vania Salsabila Pratama)*
The public strongly rejects all forms of demonstrations or mass actions because they only have the potential to give rise to anarchy and damage national security stability amidst the ongoing transition of government from President Joko Widodo to the 8th President of the Republic of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto.
Indonesia entered an important moment on October 20, 2024, where Prabowo Subianto and Gibran Rakabuming Raka were inaugurated as President and Vice President-elect for the 2024-2029 period.
The change of leadership took place in a conducive atmosphere, marking a smooth transition from President Joko Widodo’s administration. However, amidst thorough preparations, there are still rumors of planned demonstrations and rejection of the inauguration that could disrupt national stability. Therefore, full support for the inauguration and rejection of potentially damaging actions are important in maintaining the sustainability of a healthy democracy.
Director of Indonesian Political House, Fernando Emas, emphasized that the public must maintain the stability of the country and avoid actions that could disrupt the transition process.
According to him, the inauguration of the new president and vice president and the end of President Joko Widodo’s term must run peacefully. Fernando suggested that the public give Prabowo Subianto space to continue the development pioneered by Jokowi.
Fernando also noted the planned demonstrations by several groups, including the BEM SI action, as potential to disrupt security. He hopes that these actions will not end in anarchic actions that will harm all parties.
In Fernando’s view, the police have an important role in ensuring that demonstrations are carried out in accordance with applicable regulations. The police need to maintain security without violating citizens’ rights to express their opinions, while ensuring that the country’s stability is maintained.
He emphasized that the public should appreciate the works that have been achieved by President Joko Widodo during his administration. This award is not only a form of appreciation, but also a foundation to continue efforts to build Indonesia in a better direction under the leadership of Prabowo and Gibran.
In line with this, the Executive Director of the Human Studies Institute (HSI), Rasminto, gave the view that the rejection of the inauguration of Prabowo and Gibran should not have happened, considering that the election process had been carried out according to the constitution.
According to Rasminto, people who feel dissatisfied should channel their aspirations through the constitutional channels that are already available, such as Bawaslu or the Constitutional Court. He emphasized that all legal mechanisms have been implemented and are final, so that efforts to reject them reflect more immaturity in politics.
Rasminto also reminded that Indonesia’s political history is often colored by divisive efforts, especially from parties who do not want the nation to progress. He invited all parties to realize that there are certain actors who are trying to hinder Indonesia from achieving stability and progress.
Demonstrating is indeed a democratic right guaranteed by law, but Rasminto appealed to the public to consider the urgency and impact of such actions. If demonstrations cause more harm, then it will only harm the nation itself.
Ahmad Muzani, Chairman of the People’s Consultative Assembly of the Republic of Indonesia (MPR RI), also said that the current political and security conditions in Indonesia are very conducive ahead of the inauguration.
According to him, the community situation also shows positive signs towards the inauguration, which is expected to run smoothly. Muzani emphasized that President Joko Widodo and President-elect Prabowo Subianto have directly reviewed the security readiness at various strategic points, including Mako Brimob in Depok, to ensure security during the inauguration.
Muzani also emphasized the importance of the presence of important guests, both from within the country and abroad, who will attend the inauguration procession. According to him, confirmation of the presence of a number of heads of state and government leaders continues to be carried out by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and security forces. The presence of international guests at this event reflects how important the transition of government in Indonesia is to the international world.
The inauguration of Prabowo Subianto and Gibran Rakabuming Raka on October 20, 2024 is predicted to be a historic moment, not only for the Indonesian nation but also for the international community.
A peaceful and orderly leadership transition will guarantee political and economic stability for Indonesia, while also sending a positive signal to the world about the nation’s commitment to maintaining democracy.
The public certainly hopes that the new government can continue the development programs pioneered by President Joko Widodo, especially in realizing the vision of Golden Indonesia 2045.
The success of the inauguration will be an important first step for Prabowo and Gibran to take Indonesia in a more advanced direction. With full support from the community, this government transition is expected to run smoothly, opening a new chapter in the nation’s journey towards a brighter future.
)* The author is a contributor to the Nusantara Reading Room