Yustinus Patris Paat, Jakarta – The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P) has not yet reached a decision on its stance following the presidential election defeat, a senior party official said on Tuesday.

According to PDI-P Secretary General Hasto Kristiyanto, the crucial decision rests solely with Chairwoman Megawati Soekarnoputri.

Although PDI-P remains the largest party in the House of Representatives, its share of votes decreased by 4 percentage points compared to the 2019 elections. The Golkar Party now trails by just 1 point.

In the recent presidential election, the party's nominee, Ganjar Pranowo, finished last as Prabowo Subianto secured an outright victory with 58 percent of the vote.

Ganjar confirmed that he would not accept a cabinet position in Prabowo's government even if offered and recently hinted at the party assuming an opposition role to the incoming Prabowo government, a stance similar to its position during Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono's presidency from 2004-2014.

Although acknowledging Ganjar's personal stance, Hasto clarified that his views do not necessarily reflect those of the party.

"The decision of whether PDI-P will be part of the government or opposition will be deliberated during the next national congress. However, it is emphasized in party guidelines that such a significant decision lies solely with the chairwoman," Hasto said in Jakarta.

"We respect Mr. Ganjar's decision not to join the future cabinet," he added.

With most incumbent parties pledging their support to the incoming Prabowo government, PDI-P may potentially become the sole opposition party following the inauguration of the new president in October.

PDI-P has contested Prabowo's presidential victory, alleging widespread fraud and questioning the legality of Gibran Rakabuming Raka's appointment as his running mate.

However, the Constitutional Court dismissed these allegations and upheld Prabowo's victory as lawful and legitimate in a ruling last month.

Gibran is the eldest son of President Joko Widodo, who distanced himself from PDI-P several months prior to the elections.

Source: https://jakartaglobe.id/news/pdip-yet-to-determine-stance-on-opposition-to-prabowo-governmen