Jakarta – The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P) has strongly objected to the inclusion of its chairperson, Megawati Soekarnoputri, in allegations surrounding President Joko Widodo’s (Jokowi) educational credentials. This response follows statements made by Democratic Party politician Andi Arief, who indicated that former President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (SBY) felt disturbed by being linked to the issue and was reportedly believed to be collaborating with Megawati.
Political Motivations Alleged
According to Deddy Sitorus, a DPP (Central Executive Board) chairman of PDI-P, the effort to involve Megawati is a tactic to divert attention from the core issue of the alleged falsified diploma. “It’s an attempt by those feeling cornered regarding the false diploma issue to portray themselves as politically victimized,” Sitorus stated on Wednesday, December 31, 2025. He further asserted that those raising the issue have consistently opposed the current president since the 2014 elections.
Legal Recourse Supported
Sitorus emphasized that the matter of the diploma is a legal and ethical concern, not a political one. He expressed support for the Democratic Party’s consideration of legal action regarding the accusations. “It is very reasonable and appropriate that those making the accusations be brought to the legal realm so that everything is clear and there is a deterrent effect,” he said.
SBY Also Feels Targeted
Prior to PDI-P’s statement, Andi Arief had reported that SBY was troubled by the allegations linking him to the diploma issue. SBY is considering legal action against those who have connected his name to the controversy, according to Andi Arief. Andi Arief stated he recently met with SBY, who denied any involvement in the matter and expressed his frustration.
“I met with Pak SBY a few days ago, and Pak SBY was quite disturbed by this issue because it is not true that Pak SBY was behind the issue of the false diploma or even that Pak SBY collaborated with Ibu Megawati in uncovering the alleged false diploma of Pak Jokowi,” Andi Arief explained.
Anonymous Accounts Implicated
Andi Arief further stated that anonymous social media accounts are responsible for spreading the claims linking SBY to the issue, and that the affiliations of these accounts are known.
Megawati’s Character Defended
Sitorus asserted that engaging in behind-the-scenes political tactics is not characteristic of Megawati. He described her as a principled leader who does not resort to underhanded methods. “It is not Ibu Megawati’s style to play politics behind the scenes. Her political path is one of chivalry, not cowardice, borrowing the hands or mouths of others to attack,” he stated.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted PDI-P’s response?
PDI-P responded to statements made by Andi Arief, a politician from the Democratic Party, which suggested Megawati Soekarnoputri was involved in allegations regarding President Jokowi’s diploma.
What is SBY’s position on the matter?
According to Andi Arief, SBY is disturbed by being linked to the issue of President Jokowi’s alleged falsified diploma and is considering legal action.
Is this issue being handled as a legal matter?
Deddy Sitorus of PDI-P stated that the issue of the diploma is a matter of law and ethics, and supports legal action being taken against those making the accusations.
Given these escalating accusations and defenses, how might the pursuit of legal recourse shape the future discourse surrounding these claims?
