Core members of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P) who were recently inaugurated as regional heads have opted out of an upcoming retreat organized by President Prabowo Subianto. Their decision reflects a show of solidarity towards the party’s secretary general, Hasto Kristiyanto, who has been implicated in a graft scandal.
Governor Wayan Koster of Bali Remains Unsettled
A senior official from the Bali provincial administration indicated that while most new regents and mayors have departed for Magelang, Central Java, to attend the retreat, the recently inaugurated Governor Wayan Koster has yet to make his decision and remains in Denpasar.
Head of Bali provincial administration’s protocol I Wayan Budiasa was quoted by Antara as saying, “There is no decision on whether he would join the retreat or not.”
Regional Heads Delay Participation Awaits Party Chairman
Senior PDI-P politician Masinton Pasaribu, who was recently sworn in as Regent of Central Tapanuli in North Sumatra, has delayed his trip to Magelang pending further instructions from the party’s Chairman, Megawati Soekarnoputri.
Masinton stated, “For the time being, I will delay my trip to Magelang while waiting for further instruction from Ibu Megawati,” as quoted by Kompas.
Megawati Issues Official Order to Skip Retreat
Following the Corruption Eradication Commission’s (KPK) move to detain Hasto, Megawati issued orders to all regional heads nominated by the PDI-P to refrain from attending President Subianto’s retreat in Magelang. This action could undermine the already fragile relationship between the two influential political figures.
The Political Fallout
In recent months, President Prabowo has worked to groom a relationship with Megawati, aiming to secure her party’s support for several of his administration’s key policies, including the free meals program and the formation of Danantara, an Indonesian sovereign wealth fund resembling Singapore’s Temasek.
Earlier this year, Megawati extended an opportunity to Prabowo for her party to align with his government through a partnership.
Newly Elected Jakarta Governor Also Unsure
Newly inaugurated Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo, another senior PDI-P member, has not made a statement regarding his participation in the Magelang retreat.
Pramono was reportedly seeking a waiver from Megawati to join the retreat regardless.
Conclusion: A Rift in Leadership?
The PDI-P leadership’s decision to boycott President Prabowo’s retreat underscores the complex dynamics within the party. While Prabowo has made efforts to mend fences with Megawati, the emerging corruption scandal involving Hasto could exacerbate these tensions and lead to a significant rift in their political alliance.
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