Jakarta – The Repeat Voting (PSU) held in several regions across Indonesia marks an important moment to reaffirm the spirit of a healthy and dignified democracy. All parties—including candidate pairs, campaign teams, and their supporters—are urged to accept the PSU outcomes with an open heart.
The ability to accept election results, whatever the outcome, is a clear indicator of democratic maturity. Such an attitude is essential for maintaining regional political stability, which in turn contributes positively to national stability. Moreover, gracious acceptance of PSU results is vital to sustaining public trust in the democratic process as a whole.
Iffa Rosita, Commissioner of the General Elections Commission (KPU), expressed her hope that candidate pairs would refrain from challenging the PSU results merely out of dissatisfaction. She also emphasized the importance of the election organizers maintaining institutional credibility to prevent dissatisfaction that could lead to legal disputes.
“I hope all candidate pairs will accept the final vote tally with grace. KPU consistently emphasizes the importance of integrity and neutrality in conducting the PSU,” Iffa asserted.
In Riau Province, KPU Commissioner Nahrawi stressed the importance of local election officials, particularly in Siak Regency, upholding integrity and professionalism during the PSU. He also highlighted the risk of politicizing election outcomes by interest groups, including through money politics.
“We urge all election organizers, especially in Siak, to safeguard integrity, neutrality, and professionalism throughout the PSU process,” he said.
Nahrawi further noted that issues of vote-buying and political manipulation should be addressed through massive public education efforts as part of preventive measures, although the technical authority to handle such matters lies with Bawaslu and Gakkumdu.
“In terms of authority, those matters fall under the jurisdiction of Bawaslu and Gakkumdu,” he added.
Meanwhile, Hasrat S.Ag, a member of the North Barito Regency DPRD, called on the public to reject transactional politics. He stressed the importance of creating a clean, transparent democratic environment, free from political interference, and encouraged citizens to actively oppose vote-buying to protect the quality of local democracy.
“We urge all elements of society—campaign teams, supporters, and sympathizers—to commit to avoiding political interests in order to ensure a PSU with integrity,” Hasrat stated.
The honest and sincere acceptance of PSU results is a critical part of Indonesia’s democratic consolidation. A shared commitment to rejecting political exploitation by specific interest groups will determine the success of elections as a true expression of the people’s sovereignty. In this context, the public plays a strategic role as moral guardians, ensuring that democracy remains rooted in the principles of justice and transparency.
