All Elements of Society Play an Active Role in Realizing Safe and Peaceful Regional Elections
By: Rahman Komarudin)*
Ahead of the implementation of the 2024 Simultaneous Regional Head Elections (Pilkada), all elements of society have a very vital role to ensure that the election process takes place safely and peacefully. Awareness of the importance of active participation in the election is not only the responsibility of the organizers or security forces, but also the obligation of every individual and group in society. Through the involvement of all parties, a conducive environment can be created, where every voice is valued and every hope for the future can be realized.
The role of the community is very important in creating a positive atmosphere during the Pilkada. Non-governmental organizations, community groups, and local communities need to continue to mobilize awareness campaigns to educate citizens about the importance of participating in the Pilkada. By providing clear information about candidates, work programs, and voting mechanisms, the community will be better prepared to make the right choice. Activities such as public discussions, interactive dialogues, and seminars are a means to reduce tensions that may arise in the run-up to the Pilkada.
Regional Secretary of South Sulawesi Province, Jufri Rahman said that his party invited all elements of society to contribute to creating a peaceful Pilkada. Jufri also said that peace is an important thing that should be maintained including during the Pilkada period, while emphasizing that peace is expensive, because if peace is damaged, the cost will be greater. In addition, all parties involved in the contestation or participants who take part in the Pilkada contestation should be role models for all their supporters to maintain peace.
Then the media also plays a very strategic role in maintaining peace during the Pilkada. By conveying accurate and balanced information, the media can prevent the spread of fake news or hoaxes that often trigger conflict in society. In this case, journalists and reporters are required to work with integrity, present facts objectively, and provide space for various voices in society. With constructive coverage, the media not only functions as an information tool, but also as a guardian of democracy that can help maintain peace.
On the other hand, security forces also play an important role in creating safe conditions during the Pilkada process. The placement of officers at polling locations, as well as strict supervision, provides a sense of security for the public to come and cast their votes. However, the security forces’ duties do not stop there, because they must also be wise and responsive to any situation that may trigger tension. With a humanistic approach and good communication, security forces can build trust with the public, so that cooperation between residents and officers becomes more harmonious.
Meanwhile, the Head of the South Sulawesi Interfaith Communication Forum (FKUB), Wahyudin Naro said that the implementation of the Pilkada is not only the government’s responsibility, but also a shared responsibility in maintaining peace, security, tolerance and harmony. His party has also held journalistic and content creator training activities by young people of different religions which aim for the younger generation to be able to filter news that can be misleading, which can provoke or become a black campaign in the life of the nation and state.
No less important, the role of prospective leaders and political parties is also very important in creating a safe and peaceful Pilkada. Prospective leaders must uphold the values of sportsmanship and ethics in competing. Avoiding negative campaigns or black campaigns that can divide society is very important by focusing on the programs and visions and missions that you want to achieve, as well as establishing good communication with all groups. Sincerity in undergoing the campaign process will greatly influence how society responds, and can create a healthier political climate.
Likewise, Acting Mayor of Makassar, Andi Arwin Azis invited all elements of society to realize a peaceful Pilkada. In addition, with the existence of a cooling system in the community, it is hoped that the 2024 Pilkada can run smoothly without any friction.
In addition, youth involvement in the Pilkada must also be a concern. The younger generation as agents of change has great potential to encourage active participation among peers. By utilizing social media and other digital platforms, youth can disseminate useful information and arouse public interest in participating in the election process.
All elements of society must support and collaborate to realize a safe and peaceful Pilkada. When every individual feels responsible for maintaining security and peace, a harmonious atmosphere will be created, where everyone can speak without fear. By respecting differences of opinion and working together to achieve common goals, it is certain that democracy will run well. Pilkada is not just an event to elect a leader, but also an important moment to show that society is able to collaborate for the common good. With a positive spirit, Indonesia can realize the 2024 Pilkada that is safe, peaceful, and full of hope for the future.
)* The author is a domestic political observer
