By : Gavin Asadit )*
The 2024 regional elections are an important moment in Indonesian democracy, which not only involves the process of selecting regional heads but also facing various challenges that can affect security and order. With the high level of political conflict leading up to the Pilkada, it is important to be aware of the potential for provocations and demonstrations that could disrupt order and security and harm the democratic process.
Security forces and local governments have taken various steps to ensure that the 2024 regional elections take place peacefully and safely. One important initiative is the declaration of peaceful regional elections carried out by various elements in many regions, in collaboration with the security forces. As has been done by the Magetan Police, East Java, together with all elements, they carried out a peaceful declaration for the regional elections. During this event, the police invited all elements of society to work together to maintain security and order during the Pilkada process. This declaration is a form of commitment from law enforcement officials to ensure that the 2024 Pilkada is not disturbed by actions that could damage the peaceful atmosphere.
Magetan Police Chief, AKBP Satria Permana expressed his high appreciation to all parties who had participated in the 2024 Pilkada peace declaration. Apart from that, his party emphasized that the peace declaration was an important step in maintaining regional conduciveness during the election. With this declaration, he hopes that people can exercise their right to vote with a sense of security and comfort.
Apart from the police, local governments also have an important role in ensuring that the regional elections run smoothly. The Regent of Bengkalis, Kasmarni invited all parties to work together to make the 2024 regional elections a success in a peaceful manner. He emphasized the importance of the community’s active role in avoiding and overcoming potential conflicts and provocations that could arise. This invitation aims to ensure that all parties, including the government, society and election participants, maintain their attitudes and actions so as not to cause tensions that could influence the results of the 2024 regional elections.
To ensure readiness to face the 2024 Pilkada, various simulations and security exercises have also been carried out. In Rembang, the Regent attended a roll call for troops which was part of the Mantap Praja Nala operation. The rally included a simulation demonstration of the City Security System (Sispamkota) which aims to deal with various possible security disturbances during the 2024 Pilkada. This activity reflects the serious efforts of local authorities and governments to prepare for all possibilities and ensure that the Pilkada process can take place safely.
Meanwhile, Rejang Lebong Police Chief, AKBP Eko Budiman, SIK, MIK said that his party would continue to be committed to working hard to ensure that the 2024 Simultaneous Regional Elections would run safely, smoothly and peacefully. He also emphasized that the Sispamkota simulation is a form of ensuring the preparedness and ability of security forces in maintaining security and smoothness during the implementation of the 2024 Pilkada.
In the context of regional elections, provocations and demonstrations often become issues that disrupt the course of elections. Provocation can take the form of spreading fake news, slander, or negative campaigns aimed at dividing society. Demonstrations can also appear as a form of dissatisfaction with the election process or results that are considered unsatisfactory. These two factors can create tension and potential chaos that could disrupt the democratic process. Apart from that, demonstrations can damage and injure the democratic process in the country, which in turn can have a negative impact on society.
In response to this, the public needs to be alert to all forms of provocation that could damage the peaceful atmosphere ahead of the 2024 regional elections. The spread of unclear or unverified information is often used to manipulate public opinion. Therefore, it is important for the public to check the veracity of information before believing or spreading it. Additionally, participation in demonstrations should be considered carefully. Demonstrations that are not well coordinated or do not follow the rule of law can potentially become chaotic.
Furthermore, the community also has a crucial role in maintaining security and order ahead of the regional elections. A proactive attitude in reporting suspicious activities and rejecting all forms of provocation is very important. Education about the importance of maintaining order and avoiding participation in unconstructive demonstrations can help prevent tensions. Community involvement in outreach activities held by the government and authorities can strengthen awareness of shared responsibility in maintaining a peaceful atmosphere.
Apart from that, the public can also support the efforts of the government and security forces by following accurate information and not getting caught up in provocations. Avoiding the spread of hoax information or fake news and maintaining constructive communication will help create a conducive atmosphere ahead of the 2024 regional elections.
The 2024 regional elections are an opportunity for the community to elect leaders who will bring change and progress. However, this process also requires special attention to ensure that there are no disturbances that could hinder the functioning of democracy. With the declaration of peaceful regional elections, an invitation to participate in peaceful regional elections from the regional government, as well as security exercises and simulations, it is hoped that all parties can play an active role in creating a conducive atmosphere. The public is expected to not only be spectators but also active actors in maintaining order and security during the regional elections, so that the elections can take place smoothly and fairly.
)* The author is an observer of social and community problems
