By: Evi Savitri)*
Ahead of the implementation of the 2024 Simultaneous Regional Elections, public security and order (Kamtibmas) is a major concern. Because it is an important part of national and state life, the community needs to participate in maintaining regional stability during the stages of the Regional Elections. Maintaining Kamtibmas is not only the responsibility of the security forces, but the important role of the community can also ensure that the Regional Elections run safely, smoothly, and peacefully and avoid security disturbances that could harm the democratic process.
Head of the National Unity and Politics Agency (Kesbangpol) of Aceh Besar Regency, Sofian SH said that all elements of society are asked to jointly maintain security ahead of the Pilkada which will be held on November 27, 2024. Community involvement in maintaining public order and security can start from small things. For example, maintaining good communication with neighbors, not being easily provoked by issues with unclear sources, and distancing oneself from actions that have the potential to violate the law.
In the digital era like today, the spread of false information (hoaxes) is very easy to happen, and this often causes chaos that leads to conflict. Therefore, the public must be wiser in receiving and spreading information, and ensure that the news received comes from a trusted source.
In addition, the security forces of the National Police and the National Armed Forces to the State Intelligence Agency (BIN) have also prepared preventive measures to maintain security during the 2024 Simultaneous Regional Elections. The public needs to support these efforts by not only complying with the rules that have been set, but also collaborating in creating a safe environment. This cooperation between the public and the security forces will form a strong synergy in preventing disturbances that could damage the peaceful democratic atmosphere.
Acting Regent of Serdan Bedagai, H. Parlindungan Pane said that coordination between agencies and elements of society is important to maintain a conducive security situation during the campaign period until the implementation of the Pilkada in November 2024. Strong coordination between government agencies, security forces, and all elements of society is very important to create conducive conditions. This is done so that the democratic process can run smoothly without obstacles that can trigger conflict or security disturbances. He also reminded that this collaboration is needed to detect potential threats early on and prevent situations that can disrupt regional stability. With good synergy, the potential for security disturbances can be minimized and resolved quickly
Elections are an important process in democratic life, where the people’s voices are the main basis for determining regional leaders. In this process, the community as voters must focus on elections that are in accordance with their conscience, not because of pressure, provocation, or unrealistic promises. A community that maintains public order and security will also provide a good example for the younger generation, that maintaining security and order is part of a social responsibility that must be fulfilled.
The Head of the Nahdlatul Ulama (PCNU) Pekalongan Regency Branch Management Board, KH Muslikh Khudlori, emphasized PCNU’s full support for the Indonesian National Police in maintaining public security and order (Kamtibmas) ahead of the simultaneous Regional Head Elections (Pilkada). The 2024 Pilkada is an opportunity for NU members to prioritize true democratic values and respect differences in political views among the community.
Kiai Muslikh appealed to the public to respect the results of the Pilkada and ensure that the elected leaders can protect all citizens. It is important to maintain the rights of the people to choose leaders fairly and freely according to applicable regulations in order to create a safe and conducive atmosphere during the Pilkada stages.
In this case, polite and responsible political education is very necessary. The community needs to understand that the Pilkada is not just a means of fighting for power, but is part of a joint effort to build a better region. With a good understanding of the importance of public order and security, the community will avoid apathy and instead become active agents of peace in their environment.
No less important, the public must also be aware of the practice of money politics which often triggers conflict. Money politics not only harms democracy, but also damages the integrity of the election itself. Maintaining public order and security means participating in rejecting all forms of unhealthy political practices. A society that is aware of the importance of maintaining public order and security will certainly distance itself from the temptation of money politics and choose a leader based on a clear vision, mission, and track record.
By maintaining public order and security, the community indirectly helps maintain the dignity of democracy itself. The 2024 Simultaneous Regional Elections must be a moment where all elements of society unite to create a conducive, safe, and peaceful atmosphere. Only with good cooperation between the community, government, and security forces can the Regional Election process run smoothly without significant disruption.
)* The author is a contributor to JurnalRedaksi.com