Yustinus Paat, Jakarta – The Chairwoman of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P), Megawati Soekarnoputri, addressed her party's future political stance amidst the upcoming five-year term under President-elect Prabowo Subianto. Megawati stressed the importance of balancing forces and checks for the progression of democracy.
"In navigating future political landscapes, given our extensive history in advocating for democracy, we emphasize the critical role of checks and balances, essential for the sustenance of democracy," stated Megawati during her address at the inauguration of the 5th PDIP National Work Meeting at Beach City International Stadium Ancol, North Jakarta, on Friday.
While acknowledging the inherent quest for power in politics, Megawati highlighted the diversity in approaches to power acquisition among political entities.
"The variance lies in the strategies and methodologies employed to attain power, distinguishing us from our counterparts," emphasized Megawati.
Yet, Megawati has not made a definitive decision regarding the party's positioning within Prabowo's administration over the next five years. She affirmed the necessity of comprehensively considering the aspirations of party members to delineate the party's political trajectory for the 2024-2029 tenure.
"Thus, PDIP's stance towards the upcoming government demands meticulous scrutiny. We must lend ears to the diverse voices within our grassroots, ranging from the vociferous to the subdued, while persistently striving for the fortification of democratic institutions; this stands as a paramount agenda at the 5th National Work Meeting," said Megawati.
Despite PDI-P maintaining its status as the largest party in the House of Representatives, its vote share witnessed a decline of 4 percentage points compared to the 2019 elections, with the Golkar Party trailing by a narrow margin of 1 point.
In the recent presidential election, PDI-P's nominee, Ganjar Pranowo, finished last, as Prabowo Subianto secured a decisive victory with 58 percent of the votes.
Ganjar reaffirmed his stance of declining a cabinet position in Prabowo's government, even if offered. He recently hinted at the party's potential opposition role to the incoming administration, echoing its stance during Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono's presidency from 2004-2014.
President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo reiterated his positive relationship with the PDI-P, despite some family members departing from the party.
The latest departure from PDI-P is Jokowi's son-in-law, Bobby Nasution, who officially joined the Great Indonesia Movement Party (Gerindra) on Monday, following in the footsteps of Gibran Rakabuming Raka, Jokowi's eldest son, wh.
PDI-P played a pivotal role in supporting Jokowi through two presidential terms and in fostering the political careers of vice president-elect Gibran and Bobby. Bobby was elected mayor of Medan, while Gibran assumed the mayorship of Solo approximately four years ago, both with PDI-P's backing.