Yustinus Patris Paat, Jakarta – Airlangga Hartarto unexpectedly announced his resignation as chairman of the Golkar Party on Sunday, citing his decision as a measure to maintain the party's unity.

This announcement follows Golkar's success in securing the position of the second-largest party in the House of Representatives in the last election, garnering over 15 percent of the popular vote.

Airlangga, who also serves as the Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs and is a close ally of President Joko Widodo, said he officially submitted his resignation on Saturday.

"Good morning to my beloved Golkar Party members. After deep reflection and in the interest of ensuring a smooth transition of power in the government and preserving the unity of the Golkar Party, I, Airlangga Hartarto, in the name of Allah, the Most Gracious and the Most Merciful, hereby resign as the chairman of the Golkar Party," Airlangga said.

He added that Golkar would process his resignation in accordance with the party's established procedures.

Airlangga emphasized that his resignation was carried out peacefully and orderly to uphold the party's dignity.

Source: https://jakartaglobe.id/news/airlangga-resigns-as-golkar-chairma