By: Naya Maya Santika)*
Re-voting (PSU) is not just an administrative agenda in the Indonesian political calendar, but rather a momentum to reaffirm commitment to democratic values. PSU is a reflection of the consistency of all parties in upholding the principles of justice, transparency, and people’s sovereignty. Therefore, the implementation of a safe and peaceful PSU must be a shared priority, because that is where quality democracy can grow and take root.
In Papua, preparations for the PSU for the election of Governor and Deputy Governor to be held on August 6, 2025 are showing significant progress. The Central Government through the Ministry of Home Affairs has emphasized its commitment to ensuring regional readiness. This was marked by the direct presence of Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Ribka Haluk at the Coordination Meeting held at the Papua Governor’s Office Building. The solemn atmosphere of the meeting demonstrated the collective spirit of all stakeholders in making the PSU a success in a safe and dignified manner.
Most encouragingly, the budget allocation for the implementation of the PSU of Rp160.95 billion has been confirmed safe and available in the Papua Provincial Budget (APBD). This is a real form that the state is present to ensure that the democratic process is not hampered by technical issues. The signing of the Regional Grant Agreement (NPHD) is a strong symbol that Papua is truly serious about implementing a credible and peaceful PSU. Acting Governor of Papua Ramses Limbong emphasized that the funds have been allocated appropriately to support the work of the Papua KPU, Papua Bawaslu, and security elements from the Papua Police and the XVII Cenderawasih Military Command.
The implementation of PSU in Papua is not only the fulfillment of administrative obligations, but also the implementation of the constitutional mandate. Law Number 10 of 2016 concerning Regional Elections emphasizes the importance of guaranteeing people’s sovereignty through fair and clean elections. Therefore, there is no room for compromise on the quality and integrity of the implementation of elections, including PSU. The decision to hold PSU must be accepted as a form of constitutional correction in order to strengthen the legitimacy of the election results.
Meanwhile, in North Gorontalo, the PSU process also showed a similar picture. The Head of Bawaslu of North Gorontalo Regency Roland Ismail stated that the PSU in his area had been carried out well, peacefully, and transparently. The enthusiasm of the organizers and the participation of the community after this democratic process is an important capital in creating a conducive atmosphere.
More than just optimism, the implementation of PSU in North Gorontalo has proven to be safe and peaceful. There was no significant social friction, nor was there any provocation that led to security instability. This shows that the people of North Gorontalo have a mature political awareness, as well as high respect for the democratic process. This maturity should be an example for other regions, that PSU does not have to be identical to conflict, but can be a space for healthy political and social consolidation.
The success of the PSU in North Gorontalo is due to the synergy between election organizers, security forces, local governments, and of course the community. Commitment to maintaining neutrality, ensuring security, and prioritizing democratic values is the key to creating a re-election process that is not only legally valid, but also socially and morally acceptable.
In addition, all parties need to be aware of the potential for provocation or the spread of disinformation that can harm the democratic process. PSU is often a loophole used by certain groups to divide society or damage public trust in election results. Therefore, the political literacy of the community must continue to be improved so that they are able to sort out correct information and are not easily provoked by misleading issues.
The momentum of the PSU must be interpreted as an opportunity to strengthen the foundation of democracy, not just a technical repetition of the previous election process. Quality democracy can only be realized if all elements of the nation are actively involved in maintaining integrity and peace in every stage of the election. It is not only the task of the organizers, but also a shared responsibility as a nation that upholds democratic values.
With the budget readiness that has been guaranteed in Papua, as well as the safe and peaceful experience of the PSU in North Gorontalo, the public should be optimistic that the implementation of the 2025 PSU will be an important milestone in improving local democracy. This is an opportunity to reaffirm that the voice of the people is the main foundation of a democratic government system.
Moving forward, all parties must continue to maintain consistency and integrity. The government needs to ensure the continuity of logistical and security support. Election organizers must maintain professionalism and neutrality. Civil society, including the media, must continue to monitor and educate the public objectively. Only with close collaboration and a spirit of togetherness can a safe and peaceful PSU be realized.
Therefore, let us together oversee the PSU as a means of correcting healthy democracy. Not just a technical repetition, but strengthening political legitimacy and public trust. For a more democratic, more dignified, and more united Indonesia.
)* The author is a political observer
