Chairman of Himapala Muhammadiyah University Kupang: Young Generation Beware of the Threat of Radicalism Ahead of the 2024 Election
Kupang – Chairman of Himapala Muhammadiyah University Kupang, Indra Ramadhan, firmly conveyed a message to the younger generation to increase awareness of the potential for the growth of radical movements and terrorism ahead of the 2024 elections. In a statement covered by online media start-up Jurnal Pertiwi, Indra highlighted the use of politics identity, spreading hoaxes, and politicizing religion as tactics of radical groups to gain electoral support.
“The experience of previous elections, especially in 2014 and 2019, shows that there are radical groups who use the momentum of the democratic party to fight for their ideals of replacing the Pancasila ideology with a caliphate system,” he stressed.
Their modus operandi involves identity politics, the production of hoaxes, the spread of hatred, and the politicization of religion. All of this is aimed at gaining electoral support and creating instability in society.
“So, it is very important for the younger generation to recognize the characteristics of people or groups who adhere to radical beliefs. “The future of Indonesia, especially in facing the vision of a Golden Indonesia 2045, is in the hands of the younger generation,” added Indra.
Therefore, understanding and monitoring social media is also crucial so that it does not become a fertile ground for intolerant narratives and hate speech.
Muhammad Saleh, Chairman of the Kupang City Muhammadiyah Youth, also took a critical stance towards the use of radicalism issues on the political stage ahead of the 2024 elections.
“This issue has become the main focus in the world of politics and people’s lives, and is often used for political purposes or politicization,” concluded Muhammad.
Muhammad highlighted that the atmosphere of competition for power could trigger the raising of the issue of radicalism to divert attention and create fear in society. Politicization of this issue, according to him, can damage it comprehensively and objectively, threatening people’s democratic participation in general elections.
“The issue of radicalism often arises from complex social and economic backgrounds. His criticism of approaches that only focus on aspects of religion or ideology is an important highlight. “A holistic approach, taking into account social, economic and educational aspects, needs to be applied in efforts to prevent radicalism,” explained Muhammad.
In terms of reporting, understanding and handling the issue of radicalism, Muhammad proposed the need for an accurate, proportional approach and maintaining a balance between security and freedom. He emphasized that prevention must be based on inclusion, evidence, and focused on prevention, involving the government, TNI, Polri, political party leaders, and society, including youth, to uphold human rights and unity within the framework of common interests.
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