17-3-2025 (JAKARTA) In the quiet city of Solo, Central Java, former Indonesian President Joko Widodo’s residence has transformed into an unlikely hub of political activity. The 63-year-old statesman, affectionately known as Jokowi, continues to draw a steady stream of visitors ranging from grateful citizens to influential figures, including former Malaysian Premier Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and President Prabowo’s trusted advisor, Hashim Djojohadikusumo.
The political landscape witnessed a significant shift when Jokowi unveiled his vision for a “Super Party PLC” during a February appearance on the popular YouTube programme Mata Najwa. This innovative concept proposes a democratised political structure where party ownership extends to all members, marking a departure from Indonesia’s traditionally elite-dominated political framework.
The timing of this initiative proves particularly intriguing, following the December 2024 expulsion of Jokowi, his son Gibran Rakabuming Raka (now Vice-President), and son-in-law Bobby Nasution from the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P). Political analysts suggest this new venture could serve as a strategic platform to maintain Jokowi’s influence post-presidency whilst potentially supporting his family’s political aspirations.
The Supreme Court’s recent ruling to abolish the presidential threshold requirement has altered the electoral landscape significantly. This landmark decision enables smaller parties to nominate presidential candidates without the previous requirement of holding 20% of parliamentary seats, potentially benefiting newer political entities such as the Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI), chaired by Jokowi’s younger son, Kaesang Pangarep.
However, the proposed Super Party model faces scrutiny from political experts. Dr Cecep Hidayat of the University of Indonesia highlights potential contradictions between democratic voting principles and corporate shareholding structures, warning of possible elite capture through share ownership.
The PSI has embraced elements of this concept, announcing plans to implement direct leadership elections through e-voting at their forthcoming May congress. This move represents the first such democratic experiment in Indonesia’s political party system, though established parties like Golkar and the National Awakening Party have expressed interest in learning more about the Super Party concept.
Jokowi’s continued political relevance, despite reaching his constitutional term limit, underscores his enduring influence in Indonesian politics. While he can no longer seek the presidency, his latest political venture suggests a determination to reshape Indonesia’s political landscape beyond his tenure.
