Ima Dini Shafira, Jakarta – Johan Budi, House of Representatives (DPR) member from the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP), said that the existence of the Colonels Council is known and approved by Puan Maharani. The Council is a forum for DPR members from the PDIP faction to support the DPR Speaker to run as a presidential candidate in the 2024 elections.

According to Johan, the Colonel's Council currently comprises 12 members including Johan Budi as the initiator, Trimedya Panjaitan as the coordinator, and Bambang Wuryanto and Utut Adianto as the general. Johan said Utut Adianto had gone to Puan to report the formation of the Colonels Council.

"The group keeps growing. Then we reported to Puan, and she agreed," Johan said at the DPR Building, Tuesday, September 20.

Johan said that the Colonels Council is a gathering place for Puan Maharani's fans and supporters. This group was formed three months ago and often holds meetings and discussions about concepts to support Puan Maharani as a presidential candidate.

However, he said the group will wait for Megawati Soekarnoputri's decision as the General Chair of PDIP to start moving.

"We are moving for Mbak Puan, but of course we are waiting for the decision of the Chairwoman. We prepare ahead, and we already have a post as preparation for if Mrs. Puan is appointed by Mrs. Mega," he said.

Johan said that the Colonel Council would also try to boost Puan's electability. However, Johan said, if Megawati does not choose Puan to run, he and the other members of the Council of Colonels will comply.

"If the one appointed is not Ms. Puan, of course we will stand straight behind the General Chairwoman. But for now, we are preparing the strategy," he said.

Source: https://en.tempo.co/read/1636742/puan-maharani-said-to-have-approved-colonels-council-formatio