Mass Organizations Invite All Elements of Society to Unite Again After 2024 Regional Elections
By: Herman Aditya)*
After the 2024 Regional Head Elections (Pilkada), it is time to enter an important phase in the journey of democracy in Indonesia. The Pilkada that took place in various regions has ended, and the results are now part of history. Although every Pilkada always brings quite intense dynamics, now is the time for all of us to look to a better, more peaceful, and more united future. In this context, mass organizations have a very strategic role, namely inviting the community and all parties to unite again to build a more advanced Indonesia.
Mass organizations have great potential to be the driving force of unity and togetherness after the regional elections. As organizations that exist in the midst of society, mass organizations have great closeness and influence on every level of society, be it youth groups, religious figures, or ordinary citizens. Therefore, mass organizations have a moral responsibility to maintain social harmony by prioritizing the spirit of togetherness after the democratic party.
The General Chairperson of the Central Leadership Council of the Muhammadiyah Student Association (DPP IMM), Riyan Betra Delza, said that after the implementation of the 2024 Pilkada, all parties are expected to maintain unity and togetherness. This is important so that the conduciveness in the community remains safe and secure.
It is important to realize that even though the regional elections are over, the differences in political choices that emerged during the election process should not be divisive. Every individual has the right to have political choices according to their beliefs, and these differences must be respected. Mass organizations play a role in reminding the public that political differences are a natural part of democracy, and not a reason to be hostile or create polarization. With an attitude of mutual respect and prioritizing common interests, society can move forward more solidly.
In addition, mass organizations can also be a bridge of communication between the community and the government. After the regional elections, many challenges must be faced by the regions, ranging from infrastructure improvements, improving public services, to developing the local economy. Mass organizations can act as mediators who convey the aspirations of the community to the local government and vice versa, helping to ensure that the policies implemented are truly in accordance with the needs and expectations of the community. In this context, mass organizations can also educate the community about the importance of collaboration with the government to achieve common goals, as well as provide support in the implementation of existing policies.
Meanwhile, the Head of the Laskar Manguni Indonesia (LMI) Traditional Mass Organization, Rev. Hanny Pantouw, said that his party invited the entire community to maintain security and order (kamtibmas) after the 2024 simultaneous regional elections. Then, his party also reminded that the responsibility for security is not only the responsibility of the TNI and Polri, but also the responsibility of all elements of society.
Mass organizations also have an important role in spreading messages of peace and tolerance in society. After the regional elections, emotions and tensions that arise due to differences in political choices often lead to social polarization. Therefore, mass organizations can be agents of peace that voice the importance of living in harmony in differences. Through various seminars, discussions, or positive campaigns held by mass organizations, the community can be invited to understand the importance of upholding the values of unity and togetherness as a strong foundation for building a better future.
Furthermore, mass organizations can also play a role in strengthening the sense of nationalism. In every phase of national and state life, a sense of love for the homeland and unity must continue to be maintained and nurtured. Mass organizations can be a forum to re-grow a sense of togetherness based on a sense of love for Indonesia. By emphasizing the importance of maintaining the integrity of the nation, mass organizations also support the inclusive and sustainable development process.
In addition, mass organizations can help overcome challenges that may arise after the regional elections, such as hoaxes or misleading information. In today’s digital era, the spread of false or biased information can easily influence public opinion and worsen social conditions. Therefore, mass organizations need to take an active role in eradicating hoaxes by providing accurate and educational information to the public. By increasing media literacy, mass organizations help ensure that the public does not get caught up in misleading information, which can actually worsen polarization.
The same thing was also said by the General Chairperson of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) of West Java, KH. Rahmat Syafi’i, who said that his party appealed to the public to maintain peace and return to harmony after the implementation of the Pilkada. Although there are differences in choice and support for candidate pairs, we must respect and wait for the official decision from the authorities, while we repair relations between us.
Overall, mass organizations have a very important role in inviting the community and all parties to unite again after the 2024 Pilkada. Through their active role in maintaining unity, educating the community, and promoting collaboration with the government, mass organizations can create a more harmonious society and be ready to build a better future. Within the framework of togetherness and unity, we will be able to overcome various existing challenges and create a more advanced and prosperous Indonesia for all levels of society.
)* The author is a domestic political observer
