Maruarar Sirait Reported to Bawaslu Due to Alleged SARA Statement, Here's What He Said

Kapanlagi.com - The Jakarta 2024 Pilkada is heating up with controversy involving Minister of Public Housing and Gerindra politician, Maruarar Sirait. Sharp attention is now directed at him after a citizen reported alleged SARA-themed statements he made during a political campaign. The report was submitted to the Election Supervisory Body (Bawaslu) DKI Jakarta and adds to the list of sensitive issues that often arise in the DKI Pilkada.

Samuel David, the reporter from South Jakarta, felt compelled to report Maruarar's statements, which he deemed could trigger negative sentiments among the public. Maruarar's statement regarding the potential decrease in support from non-Muslim voters for one of the candidate pairs has drawn strong criticism. Many link this situation to a similar incident that occurred during the 2017 Pilkada, which is still fresh in the public's memory.

Currently, the report is under review by the Integrated Law Enforcement Center (Gakkumdu) of Bawaslu. With the voting approaching, this case has the potential to shake the political climate in Jakarta. Let’s take a look at the complete chronology of the SARA case involving Maruarar Sirait, summarized by Kapanlagi.com from various sources, Tuesday (26/11).

1. Chronology of the Report to Bawaslu

On Monday, November 25, 2024, Samuel David officially reported Maruarar Sirait to Bawaslu DKI Jakarta with registration number 025/PL/PG/Prov/12.00/XI/2024.

In his report, Samuel highlighted Maruarar's statement claiming the potential loss of support from non-Muslim voters, which he deemed could trigger SARA sentiments and disrupt community harmony.

He emphasized that political campaigns should avoid sensitive issues that can divide, and felt that the statement undermined the spirit of peaceful campaigning that has always been upheld.

To strengthen his report, Samuel also included evidence in the form of a link to online news.

Bawaslu announced that the initial review of this report will take place over two days, during which the reporter is asked to provide additional supporting documents before determining whether the report meets the criteria for further action.

2. Statement That Became Controversial

In a stunning campaign, Maruarar Sirait revealed that Anies Baswedan's support for the Pramono Anung-Rano Karno pair could potentially erode support from non-Muslim voters.

This controversial statement touched on the sensitive SARA issues within Jakarta's society. He reminded that previously, the Ridwan Kamil-Suswono pair had lost non-Muslim votes due to Suswono's political affiliation.

However, Maruarar argued that Anies' support could actually be a blessing for Ridwan Kamil-Suswono. This statement sparked a wave of criticism, especially from those who yearn for a more harmonious campaign atmosphere.

This controversy is not just about politics, but also reflects how religious issues are exploited in electoral battles, reminding us of the turmoil during the DKI Jakarta gubernatorial election in 2017, which was fraught with similar nuances.

3. Public Opinion and Community Reactions

The issue raised by Maruarar has triggered a wave of reactions among the public, especially on social media. Many view his statements as reflecting an unhealthy political strategy, raising concerns that SARA sentiment will again be weaponized in the 2024 Regional Elections.

Meanwhile, his supporters argue that the statement is merely a political analysis that is not intended to offend anyone, reflecting the complex political dynamics in Jakarta.

However, negative voices still dominate, with high hopes from Jakarta residents that this issue does not drag on into a prolonged polemic, and they prefer a peaceful campaign atmosphere focused on the candidates' work programs.

4. Stages of Bawaslu Study

After receiving the report, Bawaslu immediately moves to the initial study stage to assess the validity of the incoming information.

In this process, they will conduct an in-depth analysis of the documents, gather supporting evidence, and interview relevant parties, which usually lasts for two to three working days.

If indications of violations are found, the report will be elevated to a more in-depth investigation level.

However, if no elements of violation are identified, the report will be halted at this stage. This process is crucial to ensure that reports are not misused as a political tool to harm opponents.

Bawaslu is expected to carry out its duties with a neutral and professional attitude in handling each case.

5. Potential Impact on the Jakarta 2024 Election

This case has the potential to change the landscape of the upcoming Jakarta 2024 election, with the voting day just days away.

The emerging issue could influence public perceptions of certain candidates, and parties that feel aggrieved may seize this moment as a campaign weapon to garner voter sympathy.

On the other hand, Maruarar's supporters are trying to explain the context of the statement to quell the wave of criticism. Ultimately, this situation highlights how sensitive religious issues are in Indonesia's political arena, especially in Jakarta, which serves as a barometer for national political dynamics.

6. Community Projections and Hopes

Jakarta residents hope that this case does not become a divisive issue in the midst of a diverse society. They urge candidates and campaign teams to focus more on important issues such as education, health, and infrastructure, rather than getting caught up in divisive SARA issues.

Additionally, the community is also looking forward to Bawaslu handling this case quickly and transparently, so as not to disrupt the smooth running of the election. A fair legal process is hoped to serve as a valuable lesson for all parties to communicate more wisely in public spaces.

7. What is the reason Maruarar Sirait was reported to Bawaslu?

Maruarar is currently in the spotlight following his statement that is considered to contain elements of SARA related to non-Muslim voters in the Jakarta 2024 gubernatorial election.

This statement has sparked controversy and strong reactions from various groups, adding tension to the already heated political atmosphere ahead of the election.

8. Who reported Maruarar Sirait?

Samuel David, a resident of South Jakarta, filed a report on the grounds that the statement has the potential to generate a wave of negative sentiment among the public.

9. What steps will Bawaslu take after receiving the report?

Bawaslu is prepared to move to the initial stage by conducting an in-depth study for two days to assess whether the report received is worthy of being brought to further investigation.

10. What is the impact of this case on the Jakarta 2024 elections?

This case has the potential to change public perception of certain candidates, while also increasing tensions in the political atmosphere that is heating up as the voting day approaches.

(kpl/rmt)