When Valentine’s Day Becomes The Election Day …

What are you doing this February 14? Going on a nice date with your boyfriend/girlfriend/husband/wife/partner/whatever? Going solo as a proud, confident single person? Hanging out with your family or going stag with your equally single besties?

In Indonesia, it’s an Election Day for us. We’re voting for our next President and HOR (House of Representatives) for the next five years. Well, I’m not much of an enthusiast when it comes to discussing politics. I’m more of a quiet bystander. I watch, ponder, and keep my secret vote to myself this time. I think I’ve sort of been doing that for the past couple of elections or so.

Why? I’ve seen the attitude of most Indonesians when it comes to discussing politics online. Honestly, I’ve never liked it. It’s the usual bitch-fest that often leads nowhere.

Long story short, I once opened up about my past votes. When the past president did something disappointing, I remember criticizing him and expressing my disappointment on my Facebook wall. An old friend then made some nasty, mocking remarks in the comment section:

“President LO, tuh.” (That’s YOUR president.)

My response?

“Oh, wow. I didn’t know you’d already CHANGED your NATIONALITY and moved to live overseas. Sorry, too busy to check on your wall these days. CONGRATS. Where are you now?”

That had shut that person up. I don’t like it, but I can be a bitch too when challenged childishly. For the record, I was just being sarcastic. That person is still Indonesian.

Eventually, I’ll be doing the same thing as the last time. I’ll have to vote for the lesser (or the least) evil. That’s what they always advise Indonesian voters these days. I know that’s not ideal, but it’s still better than not giving my vote at all. I don’t want my vote to be stolen by some random supporter. I am more than just a number.

What if the one I vote for wins? We shall see. What if they screw up? As a citizen and a (disappointed) voter, I have the right to call them out and hold them accountable.

What if they become such authoritarian dictators that they choose to threaten the lives of the people who criticize them? We shall see. Another coup d’etat like it’s 1998, perhaps?

Bibi