Elections Should Not Tarnish Relations, President Says

President Joko Widodo uses Railway Transport Extraordinary Train RI-1 to go to Sukabumi.

Sukabumi, West Java, MINA – President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) appealed to the public not to damage their relationship only because of differences of opinion and choice in the implementation of elections, Antara News reported.

“The people`s democracy fiesta is held every five years, so it should be utilized in finding leaders who are worthy to lead, but it should not damage relationships,” Jokowi said in Sukabumi on Sunday.

He said that some regions are preparing regional head election stages such as the elections of mayors, district heads and governors. The people must compete to find the right figure to be the leader.

However, do not let the competition cause problems such as bullying, spreading of hoax news, SARA (sensitive issues of religious, social, ethics and group differences) and others so that friends become enemies and not get greeting with each others only because of the election.

Next year the legislative and presidential elections will take place, the differences of choice should not lead to disrupted security and divisiveness.

Indonesia is a big nation with thousands of tribes, cultures, languages ??and islands. Do not get divided because of the difference in the election.

“The election should not leave grudge. We must unite again to advance this nation. Whoever wins or loses must pay mutual respect,” he added.

At the end of his speech, President Jokowi invited all elements in society to maintain unity and integrity. If there is a problem, it should be resolved with cool head.

In addition, do not want to be provoked by unscrupulous people who want to divide this nation and disrupt the stability of the country. (T/RS5/RS1)

Mi’raj Islamic News Agency (MINA)