By: Robby Purnomo )
The implementation of Repeat Voting (PSU) in the 2025 Regional Elections is not merely a technical procedure to correct mistakes that occurred in the previous stage. More than that, the PSU reflects the state’s commitment to safeguarding the quality of democracy and ensuring that the sovereignty of the people is truly respected. The state’s presence in every stage of the PSU demonstrates that Indonesian democracy is oriented toward openness and justice. Through this mechanism, the public gains confidence that their votes are protected, valued, and recognized as an important part of determining the direction of regional leadership. Thus, the PSU is not a burden, but rather a corrective space that strengthens political legitimacy.
Election Commission (KPU) Commissioner August Mellaz emphasized that the transparent implementation of PSU in accordance with regulations is a tangible manifestation of the election organizers’ commitment to ensuring the integrity of election results. Every citizen’s vote is not only counted administratively but also carries moral value as the foundation of governmental legitimacy. According to him, the PSU should not be seen as an additional obstacle, but as a democratic instrument to uphold justice. This emphasis is important so that the public understands that democracy is not merely about a candidate’s victory, but also about ensuring that the process that produces that victory is conducted honestly, fairly, and transparently.
August further added that the success of the PSU serves as a benchmark for the KPU in carrying out its role as the referee of democracy. This process underscores that elections are not only about technical administration but are also related to public trust in the electoral institution. Transparency, accountability, and adherence to the rule of law are crucial aspects of safeguarding the dignity of democracy. Thus, the implementation of PSU not only fulfills legal requirements but also meets the moral demand of society for elections that truly reflect the people’s voice. This simultaneously shows that Indonesian democracy continues to be refined over time.
From the government’s perspective, the implementation of PSU is also a priority in maintaining national political stability. Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Budi Gunawan stressed that the government ensures all stages of the PSU are conducted safely, orderly, and in accordance with legal provisions. The government’s presence is not only as a guarantor of security but also as a guardian of democratic legitimacy. Through security forces and relevant institutions, the state provides full protection for citizens’ voting rights. Thus, there is no room for interventions that could undermine democratic integrity, including attempts at manipulation, intimidation, or the spread of disinformation.
Budi Gunawan also underlined that the government’s commitment in overseeing the PSU proves that the state must not neglect the people’s rights. Democracy can only function healthily if the public feels safe and free in exercising their right to vote. Therefore, the involvement of state apparatus at every stage of the PSU is a concrete form of the government’s responsibility in safeguarding leadership transitions at the regional level. The government views the PSU not merely as a technical obligation, but as part of efforts to strengthen public trust in the democratic system. This trust becomes important social capital in maintaining unity and national political stability amid the challenges of global dynamics.
Beyond technical and security aspects, the PSU also has positive impacts from academic and social perspectives. Professor at Lambung Mangkurat University, Prof. Bachruddin Ali Akhmad, assessed that the PSU provides dual legitimacy for elected regional leaders. Legal legitimacy is obtained through the fulfillment of formal election requirements, while social legitimacy grows from public acceptance of the transparent process. This gives PSU-elected leaders a stronger political footing, as they are chosen through a more rigorous and open democratic process. With such legitimacy, regional leaders can govern more confidently and possess strong moral authority in the eyes of the public.
Bachruddin also added that the high level of public participation in the PSU demonstrates the maturity of Indonesian democracy. Amid various provocations that could potentially cause friction, the public instead showed maturity by continuing to participate actively. This proves that society is not easily influenced by destructive issues, whether hoaxes or political provocations. The higher the participation rate, the greater the legitimacy obtained by elected regional leaders. Thus, the PSU becomes an important moment that confirms the political maturity of the people while strengthening the foundations of democracy in Indonesia.
The implementation of PSU does require additional resources, but it is a reflection of the state’s seriousness in ensuring the quality of democracy. From a broader perspective, it represents an investment in the sustainability of a healthy democracy. A credible democracy requires corrective mechanisms so that every mistake can be openly and legally corrected. Through PSU, the public sees that election organizers and the government are willing to take firm steps to uphold regulations, even if it requires sacrifices. This also dispels public doubts about the possibility of compromises or abuses of power in elections. Therefore, the PSU demonstrates that Indonesian democracy is not fragile, but strong enough to correct itself.
Furthermore, the implementation of PSU also delivers an important message to candidates and political parties. They are reminded that political victory cannot be achieved by means that deviate from legal rules. The democratic process requires all parties to comply with existing regulations and mechanisms. Thus, the PSU reinforces the principle that the people’s sovereignty is the highest value that must not be undermined by temporary political ambitions. In the long run, this awareness will build a healthier, more competitive political tradition, oriented toward public service rather than merely the pursuit of power.
)* The writer is a Political Observer.
