Abstension not the best way

Abstension not the best way

From Media Indonesia

Reports have been increasing about a possible surge in the number of abstainers in the second round of the presidential election on Sept. 20. One of the reasons is that many members of the political elite are disappointed with the results of the first round of the presidential election and the failure of their candidates to win.

It is acceptable not to vote if none of the presidential candidates are to your liking. It is, indeed, your democratic right. It is regrettable, however, if the leader of an institution or organization announces publicly that he or she will abstain as this stance could influence the members of his/her institution or organization. This may be viewed as persuading, albeit indirectly, other people not to use their right to vote.

Whatever the reason may be, to abstain is not the best way. The votes that registered voters cast in the direct presidential election will determine the fate of the nation over the next five years. That's why it is better for an eligible voter to use his or her right to vote.

It must be remembered that campaigning for abstention flies in the face of democracy and that this first direct general election is a valuable experience for the nation.

A call for abstention is not conducive to the political education of the people. If this continues, democracy will be a long way off in this country.

ALI AKBAR Bandung