By: Muhammad Nur

Fanaticism in political contestation often triggers irrational actions that are detrimental, not only to oneself but also to those around them. When people are caught up in political fanaticism, they tend to put personal interests and loyalty to candidates or political parties above human values and logic. This fanaticism creates a situation where dissent is no longer considered a natural and healthy thing in a democracy, but rather a threat that must be reduced. At least, supposed to be decreased or eliminated.

Cases of violence due to political fanaticism are still common in Indonesia. Some time ago, during the 2024 Presidential Election, we witnessed how differences in political choices caused various adverse incidents. In Madura, there were physical clashes between supporters that led to violence. In Batam, household and family violence (KDRT) is reported to occur due to disputes related to political support, not to mention all cases that have been happening about blind fanatism. There is also a more shocking case, where a child abuses his parents simply because of a difference in the choice of Indonesian presidential candidates. Then, the Mayor of Chilpancingo, Mexico was beheaded and killed after only 6 days in office. Not only that but the country that become the center of the country’s democracy, America. Even one of his presidential candidates, Donald Trump, who has now been elected president of the United States, was shot while giving a campaign speech in one of the states; Pennsylvania. This phenomenon shows how dangerous political fanaticism can be, which can trigger conflicts even within the family.

Currently, Indonesia is preparing for the simultaneous regional elections that will be held in various regions. The bad experience during the 2024 presidential election should be a lesson for all of us not to repeat the same mistakes. We must realize that political fanaticism will only exacerbate divisions in society. A fanatical attitude that considers its choice to be the most correct and rejects other views vehemently is a real threat to the unity and harmony of the nation.

In ideal politics, differences of opinion are natural and even necessary to form comprehensive and inclusive policies. Democracy should be a space to discuss, exchange ideas, and find the best solutions to benefit society as a whole. Without different views, there will never be innovations or new solutions. Therefore, openness and tolerance towards different views are important foundations for a healthy political life.

However, political fanaticism erodes that foundation. Fanatical supporters tend to refuse to listen to dissenting views and only believe information that supports their beliefs. They are trapped in an echo chamber, where they only hear opinions that align with their own beliefs. As a result, they can no longer think critically or objectively and are more easily manipulated by fake news or propaganda spread by parties who want to divide society.

In the upcoming simultaneous regional elections, we must be wiser in responding to political dynamics. Political fanaticism not only damages social and family relationships but also creates sharp polarization in society. Irresponsible political elites often exploit this situation to ignite the masses’ emotions for their political gain. They use the fanaticism of their supporters to mobilize public opinion, without thinking about the long-term impact on national unity.

The solution to overcoming bigotry in politics is to educate people about the importance of respecting different opinions and the ability to think critically. Good political education will help people understand that politics is not about winning or losing but about achieving a common good. It should also emphasize the importance of verifying information before accepting or disseminating it, to minimize the spread of hoaxes and damaging provocations.

Mass media and digital platforms also have a big role in promoting healthy political narrations. The media should be a source of balanced information, provide space for various points of view, and educate the public not to be easily provoked by sensationalist news that can be divisive. Political leaders are also expected to be role models in dealing with differences, promoting healthy dialogue, and reducing conflict rather than provoking it.

The 2024 presidential election should be an important lesson for all of us. Let us make the upcoming simultaneous regional elections a momentum to improve ourselves and prove that democracy in Indonesia is still strong and mature. We can make this political event a means to strengthen national unity, not the other way around. Instead of getting caught up in blind fanaticism, let’s use this opportunity to elect leaders who truly have integrity, a clear vision, and a commitment to bring positive change for all Indonesians.

Fanaticism in political contestation is foolish, driven by emotion because it puts blind loyalty above the greater interests of the nation. True democracy can only grow in a soil fertile with dissent, healthy dialogue, and an awareness that the strength of a nation lies in its ability to value diversity. We all have a responsibility to make politics a tool to advance civilization, not a source of division and hostility.

Muhammad Nur is a student of Arabic Language and Literature at UIN Maulana Malik Ibrahim Malang, Indonesia. He can be contacted via email at muhammad.nur.perum@gmail.com.