As the August 2026 Muktamar approaches, the race for the next Ketua Umum of Pengurus Besar Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU) is taking shape. Abdussalam Shohib, known as Gus Salam, has publicly identified several prominent figures currently emerging as potential candidates, even as other key leaders step aside from the contest.
The Emerging Field of Candidates
According to Gus Salam, speaking on Saturday, June 6, 2026, the list of individuals considering a bid for the PBNU leadership includes himself, Muhaimin Iskandar (also known as Cak Imin), Zulfa Musthofa, Muhammad Yusuf Chudlori (Gus Yusuf), and the incumbent, Yahya Cholil Staquf (Gus Yahya). Gus Salam noted that he has maintained active communication with these figures, emphasizing that all NU cadres possess the right to seek the position.
While cabinet members have also been subjects of speculation, Gus Salam indicated that their paths remain less certain. He specifically mentioned Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar as a figure of interest, while suggesting that Minister of Hajj Muhammad Irfan Yusuf (Gus Irfan) appears uninterested in the race. Gus Salam noted that Gus Irfan has historically focused his career on the Gerindra Party rather than direct involvement within NU.
Leadership Transitions and Departures
Not all figures linked to the leadership discussion are pursuing the role. Saifullah Yusuf, or Gus Ipul, the Secretary General of PBNU, explicitly stated on Monday, May 3, 2026, that he will not run for the position. Gus Ipul, who is serving as the Chair of the Organizing Committee (OC) for the Muktamar, remarked that he lacks the necessary capacity for the role and prefers to focus on his current organizational duties.
Despite his own withdrawal, Gus Ipul has pointed to Nasaruddin Umar as a potential candidate, citing his past service as Katib Aam PBNU. According to Gus Ipul, speaking on Friday, May 8, 2026, the history of the organization shows that prior experience as Katib Aam—a role held by figures like Gus Yahya and Kiai Said—often serves as a precursor to the chairmanship. Other names, including Muhammad Nuh, have also surfaced in discussions regarding potential leadership contenders.
What Happens Next
The formal nomination process is expected to clarify as the organization moves toward the Munas and Konbes in late June 2026. While the list of names continues to circulate, the final field of candidates remains subject to the preferences of the participants and the strategic decisions of the potential nominees themselves. The official location for the August 2026 Muktamar has yet to be finalized, leaving a key logistical detail to be determined as the internal selection process matures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who has confirmed they will not run for Ketua Umum PBNU?
Saifullah Yusuf, also known as Gus Ipul, has stated he will not run, citing a lack of capacity for the position.
When will the preliminary meetings for the Muktamar take place?
The Musyawarah Nasional (Munas) Alim Ulama and Konferensi Besar (Konbes) are scheduled for June 20-21, 2026, at Pondok Pesantren Al-Falah Ploso, Kediri.
Why is Nasaruddin Umar considered a potential candidate?
According to Gus Ipul, Nasaruddin Umar’s past service as Katib Aam PBNU provides him with the relevant organizational background historically associated with the chairmanship.
Which qualities do you believe are most essential for the next leader of an organization as large as PBNU?
