BANGLI, TABANAN, BALINEWS — The Bali Provincial General Elections Commission (KPU Bali) monitored simultaneous student council elections (Pemilos) in Bangli and Tabanan on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, as part of efforts to strengthen democratic education and electoral literacy among young voters.
In Bangli, KPU Bali Commissioner Anak Agung Raka Nakula monitored the elections at SMK 4 Bangli, while fellow commissioner Luh Putu Sri Widyastini visited SMA 1 Tembuku and SMA 2 Bangli.
In Tabanan, KPU Bali Commissioner I Gede John Darmawan monitored the elections at SMPN 1 Tabanan, SMPN 2 Marga, and SMAN 1 Kediri. The simultaneous elections in Tabanan involved 47 junior high schools and Islamic junior high schools (SMP/MTs), as well as 26 senior high schools and vocational schools (SMA/SMK).
The student elections adopted procedures similar to those used in formal elections, including voter registration updates, candidate campaigns and debates, presentations of candidates’ visions and missions, and the preparation of election materials.
Voting and vote counting were conducted openly, with student election supervisors and representatives of the candidate pairs overseeing the process. Through these activities, students learned not only how elections work but also the importance of transparency, oversight, and integrity.
During their monitoring visits, KPU Bali commissioners spoke with students about the challenges they faced and their experiences participating in the elections. Students expressed enthusiasm and said the process helped them understand the importance of voting rights and choosing leaders through democratic procedures.
I Gede John Darmawan said hands-on participation in student council elections provided students with a more comprehensive understanding of electoral procedures and democratic principles.
By taking part as voters, election organizers, supervisors, and candidate representatives, students could develop values such as honesty, transparency, fair play, participation, and responsibility.
KPU Bali hopes schools will continue to use student council elections as practical learning environments for democracy. Through direct participation, students are expected to become critical, informed, and responsible citizens who understand their voting rights and are prepared to participate meaningfully in future elections.
