Learn from experience in other Indonesian province where local elections led to horizontal conflict, the upcoming local election in Bali is also predicted to be sensitive to similar problem. To ensure peaceful process of the local largest event of democracy, candidates for governor and vice governor jointly declared Bali Damai. The declaration was signed by all candidates yesterday afternoon (June 22, 2008 : 16.00) during the joint campaign at Monumen Perjuangan Rakyat, Jalan Puputan Raya Renon, Denpasar.

The joint campaign was attended by all candidates, which are I Gede Winasa – IBG Alit Putra endorsed by Koalisi Kebangkitan Bali, Cokorda Budi Suryawan  – Nyoman Budi Suwetha endorsed by Golkar, and Made Mangku Pastika – AA Ngurah Puspayoga endorsed by PDIP.

The chairman of KPU (Commission for Electoral Events) Bali AA Oka Wisnumurti said “the declaration is considered as a declaration of commitment by all candidates and their supporting mass to ensure security and peacefulness in Bali during the critical moment of leadership transition”.

The declaration was then followed by entertainment show to introduce Bali Shanti Shanti involving famous Jakarta artists including Tri Utami, Bali originated guitarists I Wayan Balawan and Dewa Bujana, and Bali originated theatrical artist Putu Wijaya. They all sang Bali Shanti Shanti and Mataram Ku.

The candidates then ride traditional horse carriage circling Renon.

The event which attended by thousands of supporters of all candidates from children to olds, was performed under strict security guardians by the Police. Finally Wisnumurti warned all candidates that they are expected to be able to control their supporters.