All parties urged to uphold democratic ethics and avoid DFK

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Member of the House of Representatives Commission VIII Sigit Purnomo Said, or Pasha, has urged all parties to uphold democratic ethics and avoid the dissemination of disinformation, slander, and hate narratives (DFK) amid recent political dynamics.

Pasha, in a written statement in Jakarta on Tuesday, stressed that differences in views regarding government performance are normal in democracy.

He understands that not all parties share the same perspectives.

“In political life, the principle of ‘agreeing to disagree’ must be upheld, as long as it aims to maintain democratic balance and public oversight of government performance,” he said.

Nevertheless, he reminded that such differing views should be conveyed in a healthy, open, and responsible manner.

The legislator in the fields of religion and social affairs also warned against any party spreading DFK-containing narratives, as they can damage the quality of democracy and mislead the public.

Expressing criticism, he said, is indeed constitutionally guaranteed.

However, he added, criticism must be distinguished from hate speech that is tendentious and involves personal attacks. “This violates the law,” he said.

According to Pasha, if criticism shifts into efforts to tarnish character and assassinate the reputation of public officials, the greatest loss is to the wider public.

He called on all elements of the nation to jointly build a healthy, ethical political climate oriented towards the interests of the people,” said Pasha.