By: Restu Rizki
Ahead of the Regional Head Election (Pilkada) which will be held in November 2024, it is important to maintain a dignified democratic process together. Currently, the neutrality of the State Civil Service (ASN) is a very crucial issue. ASN is an important component in the government system whose task is to serve the community regardless of political, religious or ethnic background. However, in the context of regional elections, where political competition is very fierce, maintaining ASN neutrality is a challenge in itself.
The neutrality of ASN is the key to ensuring that public services are carried out fairly and objectively. ASN who are not involved in politics will be better able to provide services without bias. In regional elections, where regional head candidates often have various political interests, ASN must be able to carry out their duties without being influenced by political affiliation or personal support.
The government is aggressively providing understanding to ASN in order to maintain democracy. Acting Regent of Kampar, Hambali said that ASN neutrality is very important to ensure that the Pilkada process runs smoothly and in accordance with democratic principles. ASN must be able to keep their distance and not get involved in practical politics so that public trust in the government is maintained.
Kaban BKPSDM Kampar Regency, Syarifuddin said that through this socialization, it is a step by the Kampar Regency Government to ensure that all ASN understand and carry out their duties with full responsibility and maintain professionalism during the Pilkada process.
People’s trust in government depends largely on their perceptions of fairness and transparency. When ASN becomes involved in politics or shows support for certain candidates, public trust can be compromised. The neutrality of ASN helps maintain the integrity of government institutions and ensures that the public feels that the decisions and services they receive are not influenced by politics.
ASNs that are not neutral can face conflicts of interest that are detrimental to the quality of public services. For example, an ASN who supports a particular regional head candidate may prioritize the requests or needs of that candidate compared to the general public. This can result in injustice and dissatisfaction among citizens.
Head of Kesbangpol Aceh Regency, Sofian SH, said that it was important for all parties to comply with the rules that had been set to prevent violations during the campaign period. ASN must maintain its neutrality by not being involved in campaign activities or declaring support for any candidate pair. Panwaslih is ready to receive reports and follow up on violations that occur.
ASN’s non-neutrality can have a direct impact on the quality of public services. ASN who are involved in politics may focus more on political interests than serving society professionally. This can result in inadequate, slow, or even unfair services for the community.
One important step in maintaining ASN neutrality is through education and training. ASN must be given a deep understanding of the importance of neutrality, as well as the consequences of violations. This training should cover professional ethics, relevant laws and regulations, and how to maintain professionalism in political situations.
The government must strictly enforce the rules and regulations governing ASN neutrality. Laws and regulations such as Law Number 5 of 2014 concerning State Civil Apparatus and related Government Regulations must be applied consistently. Strict monitoring and enforcement of neutrality violations is also essential.
There are several reasons for maintaining neutrality in the 2024 Regional Elections. Central Java Province Regional Civil Service Agency (BKD) HR Analyst, Young Expert, Estu Widodo said that ASNs wherever they are are obliged to act neutrally during the General Election. Why should ASN be neutral? First, to avoid divisions, conflicts of interest and service discrimination. Second, guarantee civil servants as the glue of national unity within the framework of the Republic of Indonesia. Third, one of the preconditions for increasing ASN professionalism.
Effective supervision must be carried out to ensure that ASN complies with the principle of neutrality. This includes internal supervision by government agencies as well as external supervision by independent institutions. Regular evaluation of ASN compliance with neutrality can help detect and prevent potential violations.
Strong leadership and integrity within the ASN environment is very important in maintaining neutrality. Leaders must be role models in implementing the principle of neutrality and motivating subordinates to follow the same standards. Good leadership will create a work culture that values professionalism and integrity.
Maintaining the neutrality of ASN ahead of the Pilkada is a must to ensure that public services remain fair, objective and of high quality. ASN neutrality is not only important to maintain public trust, but also to avoid conflicts of interest and social polarization. Through education, application of rules, supervision, complaint facilities, and leadership with integrity, ASN can play an important role in supporting a healthy and effective democratic process. By ensuring that ASN remains neutral, we can ensure that government operates fairly and professionally, and the public can feel confident that their interests are well served.
)* Jakarta State University student