Modern Society Has Role To Reduce Election Conflicts

Bandung, West Java, July 8 (Antara) - The modern society with sound political knowledge and character will have a role in reducing the potential for conflicts during and after the July 9 presidential election, stated Bandung Parahyangan University`s politician, Asep Warlan Yusuf. "I predict that the modern society will not be provoked by negative statements and interactions in social media to engage in conflicts after the election," Asep noted here on Tuesday. Asep remarked that even if a conflict was inevitable, he was certain that the pairs of presidential and vice presidential candidates will be able to control it. According to Asep, conflicts on social media will not prompt the well-educated modern society to get involved in physical conflicts. "Conflicts on social media will not lead to physical conflicts among the modern society with good political knowledge," Asep stated, adding that during the silent week, the people will help maintain peace and security. After meeting the head of high state institutions on Monday in Jakarta, President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono expressed hope that the competing candidates and their supporters will accept and honor the result of the presidential election. "I hope the rival pairs of presidential and vice presidential candidates, their success teams, and supporters will honor the result of the election later," he noted at a press conference after the meeting. The president appealed to the mass media to be polite and avoid being provocative in their reporting. Yudhoyono emphasized that the press should become part of the solution by reporting stories that help the situation to remain conducive to support the process of democratization and in view of the smooth and peaceful elections before. President Yudhoyono admitted that the competition this time was tough, and in view of that he hoped the press will not report incorrect stories that can create tensions and confusion, and stir the emotions of the public. The head of state pointed out that the election, this year, was also being observed by the international community, and so, it was very important that the current peaceful condition should be maintained and supported by all the community elements.