Indonesian President Jokowi No Longer Member of PDIP Party After Backing Rival Candidate

Indonesian President Joko Widodo, popularly known as Jokowi, and his son Gibran Rakabuming Raka are no longer members of the country's largest party, the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP), after they backed rival candidate Prabowo Subianto in the recent presidential election. Komarudin Watubun, the head of PDIP's ethical division, stated that Jokowi and Gibran were not expelled but ceased to be members when they decided not to endorse PDIP's presidential candidate Ganjar Pranowo.

Jokowi, who ran under the PDIP banner in his successful 2014 and 2019 presidential campaigns, expressed veiled support for Prabowo this time around. Prabowo went on to win the election with Gibran as his running mate. The PDIP confirmed that Jokowi and his son are no longer part of the party due to their decision to support the "other side."

Why this matters: Jokowi's backing of Prabowo has created tension between him and PDIP, which will remain the biggest party in parliament following the election. The loss of Jokowi's party membership raises questions about his future plans and influence after stepping down as president in October.

When asked about his membership status, Jokowi simply smiled and said, "Well, thank you," without providing a clear response. Gibran acknowledged the party's statement, saying, "That's okay, that's fine."

Critics have accused Jokowi of using his powers to help Prabowo's candidacy, including by appointing his son as Prabowo's running mate. Jokowi's support for Prabowo and the elevation of his sons to political roles were seen as an attempt to secure lasting influence and establish a path independent of the PDIP.

Jokowi has yet to discuss his political plans, but according to sources, he wants to take over the second-biggest party, Golkar, which could allow him to retain sizable influence and potentially counterbalance that of Prabowo when he takes office in October. The future relationship between Jokowi and the PDIP remains uncertain as he charts his post-presidency political career.

Key Takeaways

• Jokowi and son Gibran no longer members of PDIP party after backing rival Prabowo.
• Jokowi's support for Prabowo created tension with PDIP, the largest party in parliament.
• Jokowi's party membership loss raises questions about his future plans after presidency.
• Jokowi accused of using powers to help Prabowo's candidacy, including appointing son as running mate.
• Jokowi reportedly wants to take over Golkar, the second-biggest party, to retain influence.