The Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) has confirmed plans for the 7th President of Indonesia, Joko Widodo (Jokowi), to join the party as Chairman of the Advisory Board. This development, announced by PSI Deputy Chair of the Board of Trustees Grace Natalie on Saturday, June 13, has triggered a sharp public exchange between PSI and the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP), highlighting a deepening political divide following Jokowi’s exit from his former party.
Status of Jokowi’s Membership
PSI leadership maintains that the upcoming formal installation of Jokowi is a definitive move. According to PSI Central Executive Board (DPP) Chairman Bestari Barus, the act of wearing the party jacket will serve as a public signal that Jokowi is no longer affiliated with PDIP. Bestari stated that the official ceremony will be led by PSI Chairman Kaesang Pangarep, though a specific date remains pending.
Conversely, PDIP politician Guntur Romli rejected the narrative that Jokowi transitioned voluntarily. In a statement on Sunday, June 14, Romli asserted that Jokowi was dismissed from PDIP in December 2024. Romli claimed the dismissal resulted from alleged constitutional and party regulation violations involving Jokowi, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, and Bobby Nasution.
The plan for Jokowi to join PSI involves a nationwide effort to finalize the party’s structure down to the village and sub-district levels. PSI Deputy Chair Grace Natalie confirmed that this organizational push is intended to ensure the party is fully prepared for upcoming verification processes before Jokowi begins official regional visits in his new capacity.
Political Tensions and Rhetoric
The dispute has escalated into personal criticisms between the two parties. Bestari Barus described the statements from PDIP as evidence of “deep-seated” resentment over Jokowi’s departure. He characterized Romli’s comments regarding the dismissal as “unworthy” of a major political party.
Romli countered by labeling Jokowi’s potential role in PSI as that of a “party servant” focused solely on electoral interests. He drew a contrast between this and Jokowi’s former status within PDIP, which he described as a position of service to the state and public, rather than a party-centric role.
This public friction illustrates the hardening lines between PSI and PDIP as they prepare for future election cycles. While PSI views the formal association with the former president as a strategy to clarify his political standing for the public, PDIP’s focus on the circumstances of his departure suggests a concerted effort to maintain a narrative of party discipline and accountability. The transition marks a significant shift in the political landscape, moving Jokowi from a senior position in the country’s largest party to a foundational role in a newer, smaller political entity.
Implications for Future Political Activity
As PSI moves to complete its organizational structure, the formal “investiture” of Jokowi could serve as a focal point for the party’s upcoming regional engagements. If the transition proceeds as planned, it is likely to solidify PSI’s identity as an entity aligned with the former president, potentially altering the regional political balance as Jokowi begins to represent the party in public appearances.
PDIP’s insistence on the “dismissal” narrative suggests that the party may continue to challenge the legitimacy of Jokowi’s new political affiliation. Observers may expect continued friction as both parties attempt to define the political legacy of the former president for their respective bases.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of Jokowi’s relationship with PSI?
According to PSI leadership, Jokowi is set to become the Chairman of the Advisory Board and will soon begin wearing the party’s official jacket during public appearances.
Why does PDIP claim Jokowi is not a former member by choice?
PDIP politician Guntur Romli stated that Jokowi, along with Gibran and Bobby, was dismissed from the party in December 2024 due to alleged violations of the party’s constitution and regulations.
What is the next step for PSI regarding this transition?
PSI is currently working to finalize its organizational structure across all provinces, including villages and sub-districts, in preparation for formal verification and the official symbolic installation of Jokowi.
How will this public dispute between the two parties affect voter perception in the coming months?
