Former Vice Presidents Jusuf Kalla (JK) has sparked a political debate by claiming he was the primary catalyst behind the rise of the 7th President of Indonesia, Joko Widodo (Jokowi). These assertions emerged during a press conference at JK’s residence in South Jakarta on Saturday, April 18, 2026.
The Catalyst of a Political Career
JK’s remarks were made whereas expressing frustration over accusations from Rismon Sianipar, who alleged that JK funded a case regarding Jokowi’s diploma. JK denied these claims, stating he does not recognize Sianipar and has no record of providing Rp 5 billion as alleged.
During the session, JK also addressed police reports concerning a video of his lecture on ‘mati syahid’ at UGM. Amidst these tensions, JK highlighted his role in moving Jokowi from Solo to Jakarta and presenting his name to PDIP Chairperson Megawati Soekarnoputri for the DKI Jakarta gubernatorial election.
JK explicitly stated that Jokowi became the 7th President because of him. He claimed that Megawati refused to sign Jokowi’s nomination unless JK agreed to serve as the Vice President to provide experienced guidance.
Responses from the President and Allies
Responding from his residence in Banjarsari, Surakarta, on Monday, April 20, 2026, Jokowi maintained a humble tone. He stated that he is “nobody” and described himself simply as a “village person.”
Jokowi declined to comment on JK’s suggestion that the country could be ruined due to his lack of experience. He noted that he is not the one to make such a judgment.
Meanwhile, PDIP Chairperson Andreas Hugo Pareira stated that the party is not bothered by JK’s comments. Pareira suggested that JK’s anger is actually directed at ‘termul’ (buzzers) and their owners, rather than the party itself.
Democracy vs. Personal Influence
The Pro Jokowi Volunteer group (Projo) strongly refuted JK’s claims. Secretary General Freddy Alex Damanik asserted that Jokowi’s presidency was the result of the will and trust of the Indonesian people, not the influence of a single individual.
Projo argued that Jokowi’s success is rooted in his track record of leadership from the ground up and his closeness to the public. They also credited the support of volunteers and the PDIP party as essential pillars of the 2014 victory.
Looking forward, these conflicting narratives could lead to further public debates regarding the role of political elites in democratic processes. These statements may influence how future political alliances are perceived by the public.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Jusuf Kalla claim he is the reason Jokowi became president?
JK stated that he brought Jokowi from Solo to Jakarta, proposed him to Megawati for the DKI Jakarta election, and was the condition for Megawati signing Jokowi’s presidential nomination due to his experience.
How did Jokowi respond to these claims?
Jokowi responded by saying he is not anyone special and is simply a “village person.”
What is Projo’s position on JK’s statements?
Projo respects JK as a national figure but insists that Jokowi’s victory was the result of collective work, the support of PDIP, and primarily the will of the Indonesian people.
Do you believe a leader’s success is more dependent on strategic mentorship or a direct mandate from the people?
