16-8-2024 (JAKARTA) Indonesia’s political landscape has shifted dramatically as president-elect Prabowo Subianto solidified his parliamentary majority, following the surprise announcement by the NasDem party that it would join his coalition. This strategic move, revealed late Thursday, has significantly bolstered Prabowo’s position, increasing his coalition’s control in parliament from 43% to a commanding 52%.
NasDem, which holds approximately 10% of parliamentary seats, had previously backed Anies Baswedan, a former Jakarta governor and outspoken government critic, in the February presidential elections. The party’s decision to switch allegiance marks a considerable shift in Indonesia’s political dynamics.
Surya Paloh, NasDem’s chief, justified the move, stating it would foster a “calmer and more optimistic” political climate and facilitate the incoming administration’s work. Prabowo, welcoming the support, emphasised the importance of unity, declaring, “Unity is the key to a nation’s success.”
This newfound parliamentary majority is expected to streamline legislative processes, including the crucial approval of the 2025 budget, set to be announced by outgoing President Joko Widodo, widely known as Jokowi, on Friday. The timing is particularly significant as Prabowo and his vice-president-elect, Gibran Rakabuming Raka – Jokowi’s eldest son – prepare to take office on October 20.
The coalition’s expansion doesn’t stop with NasDem. Prabowo is reportedly in talks with Indonesia’s largest Islamic party, which commands a further 10% of parliamentary seats, potentially further strengthening his position.
However, NasDem’s shift has had immediate repercussions in local politics. The party has withdrawn its support for Anies Baswedan’s bid for Jakarta governor in the upcoming November elections. This development has left Anies, previously considered the frontrunner, scrambling to secure the necessary party backing to meet the 20% threshold of seats in the regional parliament required for candidacy.
Adding to the political intrigue, rumours have begun circulating about Jokowi’s youngest son, Kaesang, potentially running for governor in either Jakarta or Central Java. This speculation further fuels discussions about the growing influence of political dynasties in Indonesia.
The political reshuffle also saw the unexpected resignation of Airlangga Hartarto as head of Golkar, Indonesia’s second-largest political party and a member of Prabowo’s coalition. This move has accelerated Golkar’s leadership transition, with a new party chair set to be elected next week, months ahead of schedule.
Political analysts suggest that these developments may be part of a broader strategy by outgoing President Jokowi to maintain influence after his term ends. The control over key parties like Golkar could provide Jokowi with continued sway in Indonesian politics, even as he steps down from the presidency.
