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PDI-P to keep supporting Jokowi’s government despite perceived betrayal
Despite the perceived betrayal of the First Family, the ruling Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P) has pledged that it will continue to support President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo and his government until his second and final term ends in 2024.
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President Joko 'Jokowi' Widodo, Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P) chairperson Megawati Soekarnoputri and former Central Java governor Ganjar Pranowo arrive for the party's national meeting in East Jakarta on Sept. 29, 2023. (The Jakarta Post/Antara)
Despite the perceived betrayal by President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo and his family members, the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P) has pledged that it will continue to support the government until the President’s second and final term ends in 2024.
The PDI-P, which has served as Jokowi’s political vehicle for decades, will not turn its back on him by taking a position of opposition during his remaining time in office, said party executive Djarot Saiful Hidayat.
“No matter what [happened], we have to safeguard [Jokowi’s government]. We have to complete the government programs and ensure Pak Jokowi's leadership is a success until the end of his term,” Djarot said.
The relationship between the President and the PDI-P reached a new low after his eldest son Gibran Rakabuming Raka, who, like Jokowi, is a card-carrying member of PDI-P, decided to run as running mate to presidential candidate Prabowo Subianto on a ticket backed by rival parties.
Gibran’s vice presidential run speaks to a major shift in the balance of power between Jokowi, whom his own party often referred to as a mere “party official”, and PDI-P chairwoman Megawati Soekarnoputri, with whom Jokowi has had a complicated relationship over the course of his presidency.
Read also: Jokowi claims neutrality at 2024 race luncheon
Jokowi has repeatedly stressed he had no involvement in presidential and vice presidential nominations. But political insiders have said the soon-to-be outgoing leader has been seeking to retain his influence by covertly marshaling the support of members of the ruling coalition for Prabowo and securing his son’s vice presidential candidacy.
