Title: PDIP’s Mixed Feelings on Jokowi’s Political Presence
In a surprising turn of events, Deddy Yevry Sitorus, the chairman of the Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP), has expressed mixed emotions regarding the political presence of Indonesia’s former president, Joko Widodo, alias Jokowi.
Jakarata, CNN Indonesia
In a recent survey by the Nagara Institute, Deddy Yevry Sitorus, the chairman of the Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP), shared his thoughts on the political presence of Indonesia’s former president, Joko Widodo, commonly known as Jokowi. Deddy acknowledged Jokowi’s significant role in Indonesian politics, stating, "Frankly speaking, we consider Jokowi’s presence in Indonesia’s political arena a blessing and a curse."
A Blessing and a Curse
Despite PDIP’s support for Jokowi in his presidential campaigns in 2014 and 2019, Deddy accepts that the party has made mistakes in embracing Jokowi’s political journey. He said, "We recognize that Jokowi’s presence has indeed been a blessing for our party, but we can’t ignore the challenges and controversies it has brought."
PDIP’s Role in Jokowi’s Political Career
PDIP has been Jokowi’s political vehicle since he stepped into the political arena, first as the Mayor of Solo in 2005, then as the Governor of Jakarta in 2012, and finally as the President of Indonesia in 2014 and 2019. However, the tables have turned in the lead-up to the 2024 presidential election, with Jokowi supporting his son, Gibran Rakabuming, as vice-presidential candidate, contradicting PDIP’s official stance.
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In December 2022, PDIP officially removed Jokowi and his family from the party, following their decision to support Gibran’s candidacy for vice-president. Deddy explained, "We believe that the party should respect the choices of its members, but we cannot compromise our party’s platform and values."
Moving Forward
Reflecting on the current political climate, Deddy emphasized the importance of intraparty democracy and transparency. Heurged, "We need to hold our elite politicians accountable, including ourselves. It’s not just about the people’s choices, but also about the systems and structures that enable or hinder democracy in Indonesia."
As the political landscape continues to shift in Indonesia, one thing remains clear: the Democratic Party of Struggle is committed to promoting democratic values and holding its members accountable, even if it means distancing itself from one of Indonesia’s most prominent political figures, Joko Widodo.
(thr/DAL)
