The National Sun Party (PMB) was set up by young Muhammadiyah followers who were dissatisfied with the existing National Mandate Party (PAN), which they said had failed to fight for the hopes of Muhammadiyah followers.
The PMB was established in December 2006 with Islam as its ideological base, which the party's founder said was demanded by Muhammadiyah members in order to promote progressive and substantial religion-based programs.
After the 2004 elections, the PAN moved to the center, and became more inclusive.
Leaders of the PMB were sure that although the party was a newcomer, it would have the opportunity to win over the supporters of other Islamic parties such as the Reform Star Party (PBR) and the United Development Party (PPP).
PMB chairman Imam Addaruqutni claimed his party was not in competition with the PAN because it had different constituents.
He cited the Prosperous Justice Party (PKS) as its toughest opponent but was optimistic that the PMB would prevail as many PKS members were Muhamaddiyah followers.
In 2004, the PKS garnered around 8.2 percent of total votes, while the PAN achieved 7.25 percent.
However, a series of recent surveys shows the PKS's support has increased while the PAN's has decreased.
While many observers have predicted the PMB would gain significant popularity, they doubted the party would obtain more votes in this election than either the PKS or the PAN.
"Looking at the tough competition among parties, it will be challenging for the PMB to pass the parliamentary threshold of 2.5 percent of total national votes," political analyst Mohammad Qodari said.
A party can place its members at the House of Representatives in Jakarta if it can pass the parliamentary threshold of 2.5 percent.
However, the PMB is targeting 7 percent or 12 million votes in the upcoming election.
Most of the targeted voters are Muhammadiyah followers in Jambi and West Sumatra.
The PMB is touting Muhammadiyah chairman Din Syamsuddin as its presidential candidate for the July election.
Muhammadiyah is the country's second largest Islamic organization.
Qodari said if Muhammadiyah members supported the new party then the PMB would be able to gain the necessary votes. (naf)
