By : Gavin Asadit )*
The implementation of the regional elections is only a matter of days away, namely November 27 2024, various political dynamics will emerge that can affect the political stability and security of the country. In this provocative atmosphere, it is important for all parties to maintain harmony and be alert to potential provocations, whether through demonstrations or other forms of agitation. The government and all relevant stakeholders up to the community have an important role in maintaining harmony during the 2024 regional elections and are wary of any demonstration provocations that could cause political turmoil that will impact the stability of national security.
Pilkada is an integral part of a democratic system that ensures that people can elect their regional leaders directly. This process requires stability and justice so that the results truly reflect the will of the people. In this case, maintaining harmony is the main key. Harmony in regional elections includes aspects such as political maturity, compliance with the rules of the game, and mutual respect between election participants, supporters and the general public.
Some time ago, the Magetan Police Chief, AKBP Satria Permana, said that the peace declaration was an important step in maintaining regional conduciveness and harmony during the election. He hopes that people can exercise their voting rights with a sense of security and comfort so that they can encourage a democratic process that can have a positive impact on society.
The Regent of Bengkalis, Kasmarni, also conveyed the same thing, asking all parties to work together to maintain and make the 2024 regional elections a success in a peaceful and harmonious 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 affect the democratic process in the country.
The political maturity in question involves understanding that differences of opinion are normal in a democracy, and these differences must be addressed in a constructive manner. On the other hand, instability can arise when political tensions rise, often triggered by various provocations that can undermine harmony.
As the Pilkada approaches, the possibility of provocations and demonstrations is increasing. Provocations are often carried out to disturb public order and disrupt the democratic process. Provocateurs usually try to take advantage of political tensions with the aim of undermining public confidence in the electoral system or pitting various groups of society against each other.
Demonstrations that are not well managed can lead to riots. Students involved in the demonstration at the DPR should remind each other to be careful of provocation. This is an important step to prevent situations that could escalate into further conflict. In demonstrations, emotions often flare and certain groups may try to take advantage of the moment to mobilize the crowd and create instability.
The government has an important role in maintaining stability during the regional elections. The government must firmly reject all forms of provocation and commit to carrying out the 2024 regional elections in accordance with the constitution. The government shows its commitment to managing the regional elections transparently and fairly, and rejects provocations that could damage public order.
It is important to remember that government action must be balanced. While a firm response to provocations is necessary, the government must also ensure that people’s democratic rights are not neglected. This includes the right to demonstrate peacefully and express opinions without fear of repression. The government must create an atmosphere where political discussions and community aspirations can develop within the applicable legal framework. Meanwhile, the Rejang Lebong Police Chief, AKBP Eko Budiman, SIK, MIK said he would continue to be committed to working hard to ensure that the 2024 Simultaneous Regional Elections would run safely, smoothly and peacefully.
Apart from the role of the government, the community also has a responsibility to maintain harmony in the regional elections. The public must be critical of the information circulating, especially information that can trigger tensions. In the digital era, incorrect or incomplete information can easily spread and trigger commotion. Therefore, the public must be wise in filtering information and not get caught up in provocation.
The media also plays a crucial role in maintaining information balance. The media must provide accurate and unbiased reports regarding the Pilkada and all the dynamics that accompany it. By providing correct information and educating the public, the media can help reduce tensions and prevent conflict from escalating.
To prevent and overcome provocation, there are several steps that can be taken. First, open dialogue between all parties, including the government, political parties and society, can help reduce tensions and understand different perspectives. Second, strict law enforcement against regional election-related violations must be carried out to maintain justice and order. Third, political training and education for the community can increase understanding of the importance of democracy and how to participate constructively.
Maintaining harmony in the regional elections and being alert to provocations is a shared task. With the active role of the government, relevant stakeholders, society and the media, as well as by implementing appropriate preventive measures, we can ensure that the 2024 Pilkada runs smoothly and in accordance with democratic principles. This is an opportunity for all people to show political maturity and contribute to the stability of the country, so that the democratic process can run as it should.
)* The author is an observer of social and community problems
