PORTALJABAR, BANDUNG CITY - Acting Governor of West Java Bey Machmudin was a resource person at the 2024 Regional Head Election (Pilkada) Implementation Meeting with the West Java KPU at the Harris Hotel, Bandung City, Tuesday (30/4/2024).

The 2024 regional elections include the election of Governor, Deputy Governor, Regent, Deputy Regent, Mayor and Deputy Mayor.

Bey said it was predicted that around 36.5 million people would have the right to vote. Apart from that, it is estimated that around 81.3 percent or 29.3 million people will exercise their right to vote.

"This shows the large participation of the community in the democratic process in West Java," said Bey.

He said that the simultaneous regional elections would be held at 140,457 polling stations (TPS) spread across 627 sub-districts, 5,311 villages and 645 sub-districts in West Java.

"Pilkada is not just an ordinary political process, but is also the culmination of democratic activities at the regional level," he said.

For West Java Province, said Bey, regional elections have a very important meaning in determining the direction of development and leadership in the future.

"This is a moment where the people of West Java can use their voting rights to elect leaders who are considered capable of representing their interests and aspirations," he said.

Bey said that holding regional elections is a shared responsibility and duty for all current regional heads.

"We as leaders have a moral and constitutional obligation to ensure that the election process takes place smoothly, transparently and democratically," he said.

Apart from that, Bey reminded the State Civil Apparatus (ASN) throughout West Java to maintain their commitment to the principles of democracy and neutrality.

"This is something that cannot be negotiated. I emphasize that every ASN must act professionally, neutrally and not take sides with any of the competing candidates," he said.

"Any violation of the principle of neutrality will be dealt with firmly in accordance with applicable law," added Bey.

He also added that careful preparation for regional elections and careful implementation are very important.

"This includes efforts to create a safe, peaceful and orderly environment during the campaign and voting process and ensure that all parties are involved in the process," he said.

"I ask all relevant parties, let's work together to protect the sovereignty of the people and ensure that the 2024 regional elections are clean, honest and democratic," he concluded.