"If the situation spirals out of control, security and stability will be hindered. This can occur when competing parties fail to control their emotions and there are actors supporting them," Tjahjanto remarked at the DPD RI Committee 1 Meeting at the Parliament Complex here, Tuesday.
The TNI commander noted that following the conclusion of the 2019 General Election, his side has forecast objections being raised by several quarters to the results of the General Election Commission (KPU).
Tjahjanto pointed out that this was apparent from voices of discontent being echoed and allegations being made of fraud in the general election despite the organizers ensuring no foul play.
"Also forecast are a demonstration and also an attack on the KPU and Bawaslu offices, apart from hoaxes being rampantly spread across social media platforms. Furthermore, polarization created by the tribal primordial identity and religion can fuel mass anarchism," he cautioned.
Tjahjanto affirmed that the TNI had collaborated with different units to take precautionary measures, for instance, by accruing data on potential conflicts and mobilization of masses.
Furthermore, Tjahjanto elaborated that his side had readied territorial aid to develop political maturity among members of the community, specifically with the role of the TNI's unit in promoting village security (Babinsa).
"Babinsa considers political differences as being normal, thereby foregoing the need for any form of hostility. If you fail to trust the election organizers, Indonesia's democratic life will become chaotic," he noted.
He called on the people to take a lesson from some nations that were earlier enjoying peace and well-being but are currently reeling under the impact of a civil war.
Hence, Tjahjanto highlighted the crucial role of citizens in developing a broader understanding and political maturity. EDITED BY INE
Translator: Bambang Purwanto
Editor: Fardah Assegaf
Copyright © ANTARA 2019
