The General Election (Pemilu) is a joint effort to continue national development. Therefore, the public is also asked to continue to make this activity a success, which is a milestone in the revival of democracy.
The importance of social media in the democratic process is also in the spotlight, especially in addressing the issue of hoaxes and misinformation. Minister of Communication and Information, Budi Arie Setiadi, highlighted the role of society in using social media wisely. He appealed to the public to be more critical and careful in receiving and disseminating information on social media platforms.
In the Seminar and Workshop on Fighting Misinformation for Healthy Elections, Budi emphasized that the truth of information must be the main basis before spreading the message. Checking information is key to avoiding misunderstandings and political polarization that can harm the democratic process.
Budi also invited the public to act as agents who can eradicate and correct misinformation by sending hoax stamps from Kominfo or other fact-checking institutions.
Budi firmly hopes that all levels of society will participate in campaigning for the 2024 Peaceful Election. Through the National Digital Literacy Movement and multi-stakeholder collaboration, Budi invites all parties, including digital platforms, business people, academics and elements of society, to jointly create space healthy and conducive digital during the 2024 election process.
The 2024 regional elections and local elections are also the main focus of the 2023 Annual Session of the Indonesian Catholic Bishops’ Conference (KWI). In its statement, KWI noted that the challenges faced in 2024 are not only limited to political aspects, but also economic ones.
The Bishops at KWI are aware that the high political temperature and large economic impact will be a real test for the progress of Indonesian democracy.
A budget of tens of trillions of rupiah for elections and local elections could be in vain if the results are not able to produce leaders who are competent and dedicated to the welfare of the people. The chairman of KWI, Mgr Antonius Subianto Bunjamin OSC, in his statement, emphasized that the 2024 elections should not be taken lightly.
Antonius warned of the potential for all means that candidates might use to achieve their political goals, including practices that could damage democracy, such as money politics, nepotism and the formation of political dynasties.
The problem is increasingly complex with identity politics becoming a trend, where ethnicity, religion, race and class are used as tools by politicians to achieve political interests. This phenomenon is one of the causes of the decline in the quality of democracy, especially related to the presidential election, legislative election and regional elections.
Involvement in identity politics can trigger social tensions and undermine democratic principles which should uphold justice and unity.
In addition, old problems such as corruption, collusion and nepotism, as well as social inequality, are still unresolved burdens. Additional challenges come from intolerance, radicalism and terrorism which continue to dynamically create instability in the political map and people’s daily lives.
In a written message to the 2023 KWI annual session, Antonius expressed his concern about individuals in the nation who mercilessly exploit the situation for personal or group gain. This emphasizes the need for serious attention not only to structural problems, but also to individual characteristics that can influence the direction of democracy.
In his view, the Indonesian people hope that the election will bring sustainable economic growth, a reduction in social problems, more effective environmental conservation efforts, and the creation of calm in everyday life. The importance of legal certainty supported by professional and impartial authorities is also emphasized as a crucial factor in creating peaceful conditions.
Antonius also raised concerns about the demographic bonus, which could cause social ills if not managed well. A larger number of people of productive age has the potential to change people’s lifestyles to become consumptive and hedonistic.
On the other hand, the impact of rapid digital development in various sectors also influences people’s lifestyles. Antonius warned that if this development is left unattended, the hope of achieving the vision of a Golden Indonesia 2045 will be difficult to realize.
In the context of realizing Golden Indonesia 2045, which was announced by the government as the goal of commemorating the 100th anniversary of Independence, KWI provides full support. Antonius emphasized that all efforts made by the Bishops and Indonesian Catholics were aimed at creating peaceful conditions that support the progress of the nation.
They invite all components of the nation to unite in encouraging the emergence of new leaders who uphold the values of Pancasila and the 1945 Constitution, respect diversity and have integrity.
Placing logic and criticism at the forefront in the use of social media is considered a very important first step to support the realization of the 2024 Peaceful Election which will be successful and have a positive impact on our beloved Indonesia. As children of the nation, let us unite to realize the 2024 Peaceful Election which will have a positive impact on Indonesia’s progress. By upholding the values of truth, integrity and unity, we can be part of the milestones of democratic revival that will lead Indonesia towards a glorious future.
