Nothing wrong with voting

I'm surprised to learn that some of our people, just like the previous ruling regime, seem to fear the electoral system very much. Voting is the main part of any democracy. It is a very respectable way to determine whether something or someone gains the support or approval of the majority or the minority in daily state and social practices.

Many people have forgotten (deliberately or otherwise) that in 1999 the MPR (People's Consultative Assembly) gave the best example when its members voted to determine who would be President and Vice President. After the result was announced, nobody had any grudges or felt to be a loser. Nobody felt either disadvantaged or put to shame. No factions or mass organizations felt they had unmasked themselves.

Voting is a universal practice and requires that the minority should agree that it is the opinion favored by the majority that will prevail. To lose honorably in an election will not lower anybody's dignity, individually or collectively, let alone the reputation of a mass organization or of a party. If voting is conducted correctly and transparently, it may educate individuals and groups to learn to agree that the opinion favored by the majority is better than the one favored by the minority.

A standard and rational voting system will not lead to the minority staging a rebellion or a riot, thereby destroying national unity. It is wiser for the minority to let the majority will prevail and put up opposition in a constructive manner.

SUNGKOWO SOKAWERA

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