politic

Jokowi Becomes PSI General Chair Candidate, Is Kaesang Threatened?

Minister of Forestry and Secretary General of the Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI), Raja Juli Antoni met with the 7th President of the Republic of Indonesia Joko Widodo (Jokowi) at Jokowi's private residence in Solo City. The meeting discussed Jokowi's inclusion as a candidate for PSI general chairman (Ketum). 

The meeting between the two took place behind closed doors for about an hour and became the focus of public attention. One of the important topics discussed was the possibility of Jokowi running as PSI general chairman (Ketum) in the congress to be held in Solo. 

In his statement to the media, Raja Juli Antoni said that Jokowi had not yet given any certainty as to whether he would actually run in the PSI general chairman election. However, he admitted that the discussion about the possibility was serious. 

"I asked 'how is it, sir, yesterday you said you wanted to register to become PSI general chairman?' He (Jokowi) answered that he was still calculating," said Raja Juli Antoni to reporters, Monday (5/26/2025). 

According to Raja Juli Antoni, if Jokowi decides to run, it will be welcomed by PSI internally, and several regions are said to be ready to provide support. 

"Of course, we are happy if Mr. Jokowi is willing. Several regions have proposed his name," he said. 

However, he emphasized that the decision remains in the hands of Jokowi, who is said to still be wisely considering his next political steps. 

One sensitive issue that has emerged is the possibility that Jokowi will have to compete with his youngest son, Kaesang Pangarep, who currently serves as PSI's general chairman. However, Raja Juli refused to speculate too far. 

"It is not certain that he will run, so I cannot comment on that," he said. 

If Jokowi decides to run, Raja Juli emphasized that he must still follow the applicable mechanisms and requirements, namely becoming a PSI member and getting support from the DPD and DPW. 

"PSI is not an elitist or family-owned party. All candidates, including Mr. Jokowi, must go through the same process," he said. 

PSI is said to be transforming into an inclusive and participatory party. The election of the PSI general chairman is carried out through a one-member-one-vote mechanism, and major party decisions will continue to be consulted through a special member platform. 

Tag: Jokowi PSI Raja Juli Antoni