Repeat Regional Elections Reflect Government’s Commitment to Safeguarding Democracy
JAKARTA – The implementation of Repeat Voting (PSU) in Papua and several other regions took place in a safe, peaceful, and transparent manner, serving as concrete evidence of the government’s commitment to safeguarding Indonesia’s democracy. The Papua Provincial General Elections Commission (KPU) described this PSU as one of the most peaceful in Papua’s electoral history, reflecting the maturity of the people in practicing democracy.
Chairperson of the Papua Provincial KPU, Diana Dorthea Simbiak, stated that of the eight regencies and one city where PSU vote counts were conducted, the KPU had completed recapitulation in four regencies. She expressed appreciation for the synergy among all stakeholders who ensured the democratic process ran with dignity.
“We extend our appreciation to all stakeholders—regional leadership forums, the military, police, election supervisors, religious leaders, traditional leaders, and the community—for ensuring that democracy was carried out with dignity,” said Diana.
Meanwhile, Executive Director of Indikator Politik Indonesia, Burhanuddin Muhtadi, noted that the application of the quick count method in this PSU strengthened transparency, reduced political speculation, and reinforced the legitimacy of the official results.
“The quick count in this PSU successfully curbed political speculation and reinforced the legitimacy of the official results. This aligns with the government’s efforts to uphold transparency and prevent potential social tensions,” he said.
On the other hand, Deputy Chief of Operations for the 2024 Cartenz Secure Democracy Operation, Police Commissioner Dede Alamsyah, S.I.K, affirmed that the police continued to provide security and accurately mapped potential vulnerabilities. For this operation, Papua Regional Police deployed 167 personnel across seven task forces under the 2024 Cartenz Secure Democracy Operation.
“Remain vigilant against potential conflicts, security disturbances, or provocative acts. Immediately report every development through the appropriate chain of command,” he stressed.
With the successful, safe, and orderly implementation of PSU, Indonesia’s democracy once again demonstrated its political maturity. This success proves that the government, together with all elements of the nation, is committed to preserving unity, political stability, and the dignity of democracy in Indonesia.
The successful conduct of PSU in Papua and other regions serves as clear evidence that Indonesian democracy continues to mature with a spirit of unity and openness. The synergy among the government, election organizers, security forces, community leaders, and active citizen participation has created a democratic process that is safe, peaceful, and dignified.