"Golput" is an abbreviation for "Golongan Putih" (White Group), which refers to those choosing to abstain from voting in a general election.
"We seek to increase the participation of the people as voters because a high rate of voters' participation and a low rate of 'Golput' can sociologically and politically affect the legitimacy of elected figures," he explained during a dialogue on "Successful 2024 General Elections toward an Advanced Indonesia" in Jakarta on Tuesday.
He opined that a high rate of voter participation in an election could help the country produce leaders and legislators that represent all elements of society and genuinely heed the people's aspirations.
Minister Mahfud then noted that the participation of voters could significantly affect the legitimacy of the authority wielded by elected figures.
"Therefore, it is necessary for the people to exercise their voting rights during the 2024 General Elections," he said.
Furthermore, he affirmed that by actively participating in the elections, people can help Indonesia transform into a developed country.
In order to get competent leaders and legislators elected to manage the country, the people should exercise their voting rights, he stressed.
"The general elections can be a momentum for us to renew national ties and unity by building a legitimate government for the sake of continuing development and advancing the nation," he pointed out.
Based on data from the General Elections Commission (KPU), the number of people in the Official Voters' List (DPT) for the 2024 General Elections has reached 204,807,222. They comprise Indonesian citizens living in 38 provinces and abroad.
Of the total voters, 203,056,748 live in Indonesia, while 1,750,474 reside in 128 other countries.
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Translator: Cahya S, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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