The government should utilize technological developments in every election stage as stipulated in the revision of the General Election Law to accommodate SIREKAP in the 2024 Election, according to the General Elections Commission (KPU).
SIREKAP, or Recapitulation Information System, is a vote-counting system for publication of results during elections.
“We will propose the use of technology in the revision to the Election Law, so that it offers a strong legal protection during the 2024 elections,” KPU member, Evi Novida Ginting, stated during a virtual seminar here on Thursday.
According to Ginting, each stage of the general elections will utilize information technology, especially in using SIREKAP to facilitate the process of recapitulation of votes.
She expressed belief that SIREKAP would help and lower the burden of the Balloting committee group (KPPS) in the collection and recapitulation of election votes. Moreover, she noted that Indonesia will hold simultaneous elections in 2024.
“I am optimistic that the use of technology would be supported through regulations and be accommodated in the law,” she stated.
Hence, she urged the government and the parliament to utilize technology in supporting the balloting process.
The urgency of using technology during elections, especially during pandemic situations, aims to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission.
The use of technology can avoid crowding and expedite various steps of the general and regional elections, Ginting remarked.
In addition, she noted that the use of technology can aid in holding elections that are more open to voters and help to prevent incidents of cheating.
Ginting remarked that election voters will be ensured a fast and fair process with legal certainty.
“The pandemic has compelled all activities to adapt to the new normal, including the general and regional elections,” she noted.
Earlier, the Indonesian House of Representatives’ Commission II member, Guspardi Gaus, had called to recalculate the 2024 election budget worth Rp86.2 trillion proposed by the KPU to prioritize efficiency.
“The KPU should be creative and innovative in planning the budget for the 2024 elections,” Gaus remarked.
Source: Antara News