Democratic Party chairman Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono has been persistent in his efforts to secure a place as Anies Baswedan’s running mate in the 2024 presidential election. With the party’s electability on the rise amid intense coalition talks, Agus has redoubled efforts recently by seeking the blessing of NasDem Party chairman Surya Paloh.

The two met on Oct. 26, marking Agus’ fourth time meeting one on one with Surya since March 29. The second encounter was on June 5, with former president and Democratic Party chief patron Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono also in attendance. The third took place on June 22.

According to Surya, the two discussed their potential coalition with the Prosperous Justice Party (PKS) and synchronized their parties’ perspectives with one another. However, the issue of Anies’ running mate was also raised. Many have floated Agus as the most likely  potential candidate for Anies’ running mate, but Surya has remained vague by stating that as a parent, he will endorse anybody he considers a good person.

Following the meeting, Agus and Surya also revealed that the declaration of alliance between NasDem, the Democratic Party and PKS was only a matter of time. NasDem had previously announced plans to declare the coalition on Nov. 10, but both the Democratic Party and PKS have yet to okay the date. The PKS insists that the mechanism for the coalition’s declaration must first be presented to the party’s majelis syuro (sharia council), whereas the Democratic Party says internal discussions regarding the matter are still underway.

Furthermore, the Democratic Party believes the coalition’s declaration this coming week will only materialize as long as the three parties have settled the issue of the vice presidential candidate. If not, according to Democratic Party elections division (Bappilu) head Andi Arief, the declaration could be withdrawn.

"As long as there’s a desire to be rational, the declaration can happen [on Nov. 10]. However, if irrational, the declaration can be pushed back. It’s fine. We just have to be patient. This is politics,” said Andi.

The Democratic Party’s stance on the coalition has reflected its full support for Agus. Behind his serial meetings with Surya is a party that has vowed to ensure the chairman’s bid for the second-highest office. According to Herzaky Mahendra Putra, head of the Democratic Party’s strategic communications body, the party will fight it out to help Agus win his quest to run in the 2024 presidential race.

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