inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. The Election Supervisory Body (Bawaslu) says the vulnerability of 2024 Regional Head Election is much higher compared to 2024 General Election.

The Chairperson of Bawaslu, Rahmat Bagja, says the Regional Head Election will be held simultaneously in the 37 provinces and 508 regencies/cities across Indonesia.

According to Rahmat, one of the main factors of why Regional Head Election vulnerability is higher is because of the diversity of issues in each region. On the other hand, the dynamics of General Elections are generally less complex with the election going nationally, not regionally.

“The diversity of issues are more complex in the Regional Head Election as each region has its own issues and the competition held regionally,” says Bawaslu Chair on Thursday (10/24/2024).

He said that regional elections often presented local issues such as the narrative of foreigners vs non-foreigners. Such a narrative has the potential to cause unrest.

Moreover, other frequent issues circulating around Regional Head Election also involve hoaxes that target ethnicity, religion, and race (SARA). This increases the potential for conflict in society.

"To anticipate this, ranks at all levels are asked to remain vigilant and ready to face various potential vulnerabilities," said the Bawaslu Chairman.

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