By : Herman Wijaya )*
A peaceful campaign is one of the key elements that determines the success of holding the 2024 Regional Head Election (Pilkada). In the context of democracy, a peaceful campaign is not just a slogan, but a commitment to create a conducive atmosphere, full of mutual respect, and far from acts of violence or violence. provocation. Peaceful campaigns also play an important role in maintaining the integrity of the electoral process, ensuring that all candidates and their supporters can compete fairly and fairly. With a peaceful campaign, it is hoped that the public can focus more on the vision, mission and programs offered by the candidates, rather than being influenced by negative issues or slander that can damage the reputation and credibility of certain candidates.
One very important aspect in a peaceful campaign is political education. Through political education, voters are given a deeper understanding of their rights and obligations in democracy. They are taught to recognize and understand the importance of their voice in determining the future of the area they live in. In this case, election management institutions, such as the General Election Commission (KPU), play an active role in educating the public about the election process, including the stages that must be passed and the applicable regulations. With sufficient knowledge, people will be better able to make intelligent decisions based on accurate information.
Apart from that, peaceful campaigns can also reduce the potential for conflict between candidate supporters. In some cases, tensions between candidate supporters often occur due to a lack of tolerance and understanding between groups. By promoting mutual respect, the peace campaign seeks to create a harmonious atmosphere. For example, a campaign can include social activities that involve all groups, regardless of political background. Activities like this not only strengthen relationships between citizens, but also show that politics should not be an arena for division, but an opportunity to unite in achieving common goals.
Riau Regional Police Chief, Inspector General Pol. Mohammad Iqbal said that the peaceful campaign declaration was carried out to guarantee the commitment of all regional head candidates in order to make the 2024 Simultaneous Regional Elections a success in a peaceful and conducive manner. So that with a calm and positive atmosphere, people are more motivated to take part in the regional elections, and increase voter participation rates.
Furthermore, peaceful campaigns also play a role in increasing public confidence in the electoral process. When the public sees that all parties, including candidates and their successful teams, are polite and do not take negative actions, they will be more confident that the regional election process is taking place fairly. This trust is very important, because it will have an impact on voter participation. People who feel confident that their votes will be respected are more likely to go to the polls and cast their votes. With increasing voter participation, the legitimacy of election results will also become stronger.
Apart from that, the media also has an equally important role in supporting peaceful campaigns. Mass media, both print and electronic, can be a means of spreading positive messages about the importance of holding peaceful regional elections. Through balanced and impartial reporting, the media can help create a conducive atmosphere for voters. Responsible journalists should also be able to provide accurate and relevant information, and avoid sensationalism which will only fuel tension. In this way, people can receive correct information and make the right decisions.
Deputy Chair of the National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM), Pramono Ubaid Tanthowi, said that Komnas HAM invites all parties, including candidate pairs and campaign teams, the KPU, Bawaslu, government, police, media and citizens to create a peaceful, informative campaign stage. , and human rights friendly in the 2024 Simultaneous Regional Elections. Apart from that, his party also appealed to candidate pairs, campaign teams, supporting political parties and volunteer groups to prioritize dialogical campaign methods, as well as convey their vision, mission, programs and track record to the public.
Then the peace campaign also invites all elements of society to play an active role. From community leaders, non-governmental organizations, to students, everyone can contribute to educating the public about the importance of maintaining security and order during the 2024 regional election process. Activities such as dialogue between candidates, public discussions, and the distribution of peaceful campaign materials can be a means of increasing political awareness. among the community. Thus, a peaceful campaign is not only the responsibility of the candidate and his success team, but also all components of society.
The importance of peaceful campaigns can also be seen in efforts to prevent dirty practices in elections, such as money politics and intimidation. Peaceful campaigns encourage candidates to focus on the quality of clean programs and strategies, not on methods that harm the democratic process.
Overall, a peaceful campaign is the foundation that must be built in holding regional elections. Through collaboration between all elements of society, including government, candidates, media and voters, it is hoped that the election process can take place smoothly, safely and peacefully. The success of peaceful regional elections not only produces leaders with integrity, but also strengthens the foundations of democracy in Indonesia. Thus, planned strategic steps and commitment from all parties are very necessary to ensure that peaceful campaigns truly become a reality in every election.
)* The author is a contributor to JurnalRedaksi.com
