Fatigue And Age Factors Allegedly Picu Death Of 3 KPPS Officers In West Kalimantan

West Pontianak City KPPS officers handed over ballot boxes of election results to the PPK at the West Pontianak sub-district office. (ANTARA/Rendra Oxtora)

The General Election Commission (KPU) of West Kalimantan Province recorded that three officers of the 2024 General Elections Election Organizing Group (KPPS) were reported to have died. "One of the KPPS officers came from Landak Regency, one from Sambas Regency, and another from Kubu Raya," said West Kalimantan KPU Commissioner Suryadi in Pontianak, Antara, Wednesday, February 21. Suryadi said the two KPPS officers were known to have died due to fatigue due to their duties. "Currently there are two cases, in Sambas and Landak," he said. "There are no details regarding the medical history of KPPS officers who died. However, the initial report shows that fatigue is the main factor, with age factors also playing an important role," he said. This incident is a serious concern for the KPU, which reminds KPPS officers to maintain their health. Suryadi suggested that KPPS officers pay attention to their work patterns and rest if they feel tired, and consider taking turns in carrying out their duties. "At the sub-district level, medical officers have been alerted to provide assistance to KPPS officers who need medical treatment due to fatigue," he said. Separately, the chairman of the Pontianak City General Election Commission, David Teguh, also stated that several KPPS officers were exhausted and had to be hospitalized. However, the task of the KPPS for the recapitulation process at the sub-district level continues. The ballot boxes have been returned to the appropriate level, and the recapitulation process at the PPK level has started from February 15 to March 2, 2024.

"For this reason, in the future, a good work mechanism is needed and an increase in food and vitamin intake for KPPS officers to maintain their health and immune system during the election process," he said.