Peaceful PSU Manifests Commitment to Democracy

By: Derby Amaro )*
The peaceful re-voting (PSU) in various regions is real evidence that the Indonesian people have a strong commitment to democratic values. In every democratic process, including when facing complex situations such as re-voting, the political maturity of citizens is the main foundation for maintaining social stability. The absence of significant friction and the orderly presence of voters at polling stations show that the people have placed democracy as a dignified space for aspirations. This attitude strengthens Indonesia’s position as a mature democratic country amidst political dynamics that often change.
The implementation of PSU generally occurs due to a decision by the Constitutional Court (MK) or findings of significant violations in the previous process. However, instead of becoming an arena for conflict or disagreement, PSU is interpreted by many citizens as an opportunity to improve the democratic process fairly and openly. Citizens who were previously disappointed or doubtful about the integrity of the election are now given space to cast their votes again. This process is not only part of the legal mechanism, but also a reflection of public trust in a healthy democratic system.
Deputy Minister of Home Affairs, Ribka Haluk said, active participation of the community in the PSU shows that voters are not merely political objects, but subjects who are aware of their rights and responsibilities. The enthusiasm of residents to come to the TPS even though they have to vote again reflects political maturity that deserves to be appreciated. This is an important lesson that democracy is not only about the victory of one party, but how the process takes place honestly, fairly, and transparently. Residents realize that their votes have a direct impact on the direction of policy, and therefore they are present not because of coercion, but because of awareness.
The candidates and their campaign teams also showed a sporting attitude and obeyed the rules in facing the re-vote. There were no significant reports of provocation, black campaigns, or other forms of violations that damaged the integrity of the process. This shows that the political elite increasingly understands that democracy does not only belong to the people, but is also the collective responsibility of stakeholders. This example is important to create a healthy political culture and is far from horizontal conflicts that harm all parties.
The Head of the Gorontalo Province KPU, Sophian Rahmola, said that the implementation of the PSU in Gorontalo Province had taken place safely, orderly, and successfully without any significant disruption. He expressed his high appreciation to all the people of Gorontalo who had actively participated and kept the situation conducive throughout the voting process. According to him, this success was the result of solid cooperation between election organizers, security forces, and all elements of society who were committed to maintaining the integrity of democracy.
Sophian also added that the implementation of the PSU is real evidence of the maturity of democracy of the Gorontalo community, where the election process is not only carried out as a routine, but as a form of collective responsibility in determining the direction of regional and national development. He ensured that all stages run according to statutory provisions, and are strictly supervised by Bawaslu and other monitoring institutions. With the completion of this PSU, the Gorontalo KPU hopes that the election results can be widely accepted and strengthen public trust in a transparent and fair democratic system.
The mass media also played a role in maintaining neutrality and conveying clear information during the PSU process. Bawaslu RI member, Dr. Herwyn JH Malonda said that balanced and educational reporting helps the public understand the importance of PSU as part of the correction system in democracy. In the midst of the onslaught of information that can be misleading, the role of the media is a fortress so that public opinion is not carried away by provocative narratives. That way, the media is not only a news provider, but also a guardian of the spirit of constructive democracy.
The success of the peaceful PSU in various regions also sends a strong message to the international world that Indonesian democracy remains strong. Although there are still challenges such as logistics and potential fraud, Indonesia is able to resolve political issues through constitutional and peaceful means. This shows that the people and government are able to manage conflicts in dignified ways, and prioritize common interests over group interests.
The peaceful PSU is a symbol that democracy in Indonesia is not just rhetoric, but a life value that is maintained by all levels of society. Every vote that is given again is a new hope for a cleaner and more transparent political process. With a strong commitment to democratic values, this nation will continue to be able to face political challenges, maintain social harmony, and maintain people’s trust in an honest and fair election system. Democracy does not always run smoothly, but as long as the people believe in it and continue to maintain the process, Indonesia’s future will remain bright.
)* The author is a postgraduate student at the Islamic Nusantara University, Bandung.