Jayapura – Komnas HAM Representative for Papua emphasized the importance of socializing the 2024 Pilkada for vulnerable groups, so that they can exercise their voting rights optimally.
This was said by the Head of Representative of Komnas HAM Papua, Frits Ramandei, in a discussion on Monday (28/10/2024). He highlighted the need for adequate information about the election process for communities that have been marginalized.
Frits explained that good socialization will help vulnerable groups, such as inmates in prisons, prisoners, people with disabilities and indigenous peoples, to understand their rights as voters.
“We hope that all parties will be involved in efforts to ensure that vulnerable groups do not lose their voting rights in the upcoming regional elections,” he said.
In the context of regional elections against empty boxes, Frits reminded that socialization must clearly explain what empty boxes mean and the process that prospective voters must go through.
“It is important for the KPU to explain it well so that there is no impression of intimidation felt by the community, especially vulnerable groups,” he added.
Frits also emphasized the role of journalists as an important pillar in this socialization process. “Journalists must be actively involved to provide accurate information to the public about each stage of the regional elections and the participating candidates,” he said.
Through collaboration between Komnas HAM, journalists and election organizers, it is hoped that the public, especially vulnerable groups, can participate optimally and gain a deeper understanding of their voting rights.
This discussion was attended by various journalists from local media, who showed a shared commitment to educating the public in anticipation of the 2024 Pilkada.
Komnas HAM hopes that, with effective outreach, active participation from all levels of society can be realized, in order to create fair and democratic elections.
