Ichsan Ali, Jakarta – Tourism Minister Sandiaga Uno confirmed on Friday that he won't leave the Muslim-based United Development Party (PPP), which failed to secure a seat in the House of Representatives for the first time since its inception.

The PPP garnered 3.87 percent of the vote in the February 14 general elections, falling short of the 4 percent threshold required for representation in the House, as stipulated by the 2017 general election law.

"God willing, I'm staying with the PPP," Sandiaga told reporters at the State Palace in Jakarta.

Sandiaga departed from the Great Indonesia Movement Party (Gerindra) last June to join the PPP, a move anticipated to bolster the party's popular support.

However, the PPP suffered a major upset in the February 14 general elections, becoming the only incumbent party to lose its seat in the lower chamber of parliament.

Sandiaga declined to comment on the historic loss when asked for his opinion.

"I have been advised not to comment on this matter as the chairman is the only authorized person to address it," Sandiaga said.

"My message is for everyone to remain composed and assured because we are taking necessary steps moving forward. To avoid any conflicting statements, Mr. Chairman [Mardiono] will provide further explanations," he added.

The PPP has filed a motion challenging the election results with the Constitutional Court.

Established in 1973, the PPP has been represented in the lower chamber of parliament since its inception. It was formed through the merger of four Muslim-based parties, including the Nahdlatul Ulama Party, the United Tarbiyah Islamiyah Party, the Indonesian Islamic Brotherhood Party (PSII), and the Indonesian Muslim Party (Parmusi).

The party emphasizes Islamic values and features the Kaaba as its symbol. It has never previously lost a seat in the House of Representatives.

Source: https://jakartaglobe.id/news/sandiaga-to-stay-with-ppp-despite-election-los