KOHESI SOSIAL PASCA POLARISASI POLITIK PILKADA 2024

This study aims to analyze the dynamics of social cohesion after political polarization in the 2024 Regional Head Election (Pilkada) in Pajo District, Dompu Regency. Political polarization that occurred during the election contestation not only affected people’s political preferences but also had implications for social relationships among individuals and groups in everyday life. Therefore, it is important to understand the condition of social cohesion in society after the political process has taken place.
This research uses a qualitative approach with a case study method. Data were obtained through in-depth interviews with informants consisting of community leaders, youth leaders, and local residents who were directly involved in the social dynamics after the election. Data analysis techniques were carried out through data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. This study employs the theory of social cohesion by Jenson and the theory of political polarization by Iyengar as analytical frameworks.
The results of the study indicate that political polarization in the 2024 Pilkada in Pajo District led to forms of social fragmentation such as grouping based on political preferences, the emergence of tensions in social interactions, and a decline in the level of trust among individuals. However, after the election, social cohesion gradually began to recover, marked by the restoration of social interactions, informal reconciliation efforts, and the role of community leaders in reducing conflict. Factors influencing post-polarization social cohesion include local cultural values, the intensity of social interaction, and collective awareness to maintain social stability.
The conclusion of this study confirms that although political polarization can weaken social cohesion in the short term, communities have adaptive capacities to restore social relationships through existing social and cultural mechanisms. Therefore, strengthening social cohesion requires the active role of all elements of society to maintain social harmony after political contestation.