By: Eva Kalyna Audrey )*
All parties must respect the results of the regional elections as a reflection of a shared commitment to maintaining democracy in Indonesia. Regional elections are not just a political competition, but also an important milestone to affirm the diversity and unity of the nation. When the people’s votes have been accumulated in official results, that is the manifestation of the collective will that must be upheld by all elements of society.
Accepting the election results with an open heart is the first step to ensure the continuation of a harmonious and stable national life. On the other hand, doubting or even challenging the results without a clear basis will only worsen the atmosphere, trigger conflict, and damage public trust in the democratic system.
National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo emphasized his commitment to ensure that the democratic process runs safely and conducively. In his statement, General Sigit reminded all parties to prioritize unity as the main foundation for the implementation of the Pilkada. This invitation is not only a moral call, but also a reminder of the importance of maintaining social harmony in diversity.
According to General Sigit, the results of monitoring in various regions show a relatively safe and controlled situation. However, he emphasized the importance of remaining vigilant and maintaining a spirit of togetherness during the Pilkada process. By prioritizing tolerance and solidarity, it is hoped that all parties can accept the election results with an open heart, without any potential conflict that could damage national unity.
Not only at the national level, efforts to maintain peace during the regional elections are also a serious concern in the regions. Riau Police Chief Inspector General Mohammad Iqbal, for example, firmly reminded the public to maintain brotherhood amidst political competition. According to him, the regional elections are a contestation event that must be carried out with a sporting spirit. He emphasized that in every match, there must be winners and losers, but the spirit of unity must be maintained.
Inspector General Iqbal also called for the importance of support from all parties to realize a fair and just Pilkada. During his visit to several districts in Riau Province, he ensured the readiness of security forces and the community in facing the various stages of the Pilkada. He invited the community to jointly maintain security and order, and to provide full support to officers in the field.
In Gorontalo Province, the implementation of the Pilkada also took place safely and conducively. Head of Public Relations of the Gorontalo Police, Senior Commissioner Desmont Harjendro, expressed his appreciation to the community who had actively participated in maintaining the security situation during this democratic process.
According to him, this success cannot be separated from the solid cooperation between security forces, election organizers, and the community. He also appealed to the community to maintain unity, even though differences in political choices are natural.
Kombes Desmont reminded that the Pilkada must be a momentum to strengthen the spirit of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika. He asked the public not to be provoked by hoax information or hate speech circulating, especially on social media.
A critical and wise attitude in responding to information is the key to maintaining a healthy democratic atmosphere. In addition, he also asked residents to avoid convoys or celebrations that could disrupt public order before there is an official announcement from the General Election Commission (KPU).
In a democracy, differences in voting are natural, but values such as tolerance and peace must be maintained and must not be ignored. Maintaining democracy is not only the responsibility of the security forces. The community also has a central role, especially in maintaining peace in their respective environments.
The public is expected not to be easily provoked by unverified information. The habit of filtering information before sharing it is important to prevent the spread of hoaxes that can worsen the situation.
In addition, security forces also appealed to the public not to take actions that could potentially disrupt public order, such as convoys or celebrations before the official announcement of the election results. This appeal is not only to maintain order, but also as a form of respect for the ongoing democratic process. Every small step, such as refraining from emotional actions, can have a big impact on the success of democracy.
The 2024 Simultaneous Regional Elections are a reflection of the nation’s commitment to implementing democracy peacefully and responsibly. All parties, including the government, security forces, and the community, have an important role in ensuring that this process runs smoothly. This awareness of shared responsibility is what needs to be continuously built and maintained, not only during the election process but also outside of political moments.
At the end of this Pilkada, the public is urged to continue to maintain solidarity and respect each other. The election results, whatever they are, should be the starting point for working together to build the nation. Democracy is not about who wins or loses, but how all parties can work together to achieve common goals. With this spirit of unity, the 2024 Pilkada can be a good example for future generations that differences in choice do not have to be a barrier to national unity.
)* The author is a contributor to the Lintas Nusamedia Institute
