28-8-2023 (JAKARTA) As Indonesia gears up for its 2024 presidential elections, a protracted power struggle is unfolding between two of the nation’s most formidable political figures – incumbent President Joko Widodo and Megawati Soekarnoputri, chairwoman of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P).
Reports indicate President Widodo has been covertly backing the presidential ambitions of longtime rival Defence Minister Prabowo Subianto. This has prompted ire from Megawati, who is throwing her weight behind Central Java governor Ganjar Pranowo to succeed Widodo in the nation’s highest office.
The roots of tension between Widodo and Megawati trace back to the early days of his presidency, when she sought to frame him as a “party official” after propelling his rise in 2014. However, Widodo has consolidated influence through alliances, including with Prabowo, who joined his cabinet post-2019 elections. He also maintains loyal grassroots networks that bolster his stature versus the PDI-P establishment.
This power struggle came to a head in April as Megawati overruled Widodo’s backing for popular candidate Ganjar, announcing his PDI-P nomination herself. Since then, Widodo has intensified backing for Prabowo, projecting their bond to media while appointing cabinet allies.
Prabowo has gained support from four major parties reportedly with Widodo’s tacit approval, endangering the PDI-P’s electoral bloc. Pollsters warn Widodo risks “big consequences” by failing to explicitly endorse Ganjar, appearing to distance himself from the ruling party.
While Widodo mulls severing ties, much depends on Megawati compromising to give him freedom. There are even signs Widodo’s political dynasty may defect to Prabowo’s campaign, which has expressed interest in his son as a running mate.
As legislative elections near, Indonesia’s leadership transition is clouded by this rift between two preeminent figures vying to shape the nation’s political future. Who emerges on top will have profound ramifications for Indonesia’s stability.
