TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Airlangga Hartarto unexpectedly announced his resignation as Chairman of the Golkar Party, effective August 10, 2024. The decision deviates from the party's usual leadership transition process, which typically involves a national congress scheduled for December 2024.

“I hereby declare my resignation as Golkar Party DPP General Chairman,” said Airlangga Hartarto in a video message published on Sunday, August 11, 2024.

In the video, Airlangga cited a desire to maintain Golkar's integrity and ensure a smooth governmental transition from President Jokowi to President-elect Prabowo Subianto as reasons for his resignation. However, he offered no further elaboration on these points.

He also emphasized the importance of democracy and the need for Golkar to prepare for a leadership change in accordance with its bylaws. “Political parties are the pillars of our democracy. Indonesia is a big country. We must ensure that our democracy continues from one generation to the next,” he remarked.

Palar Batubara, a member of the Golkar Expert Council, suggested potential underlying issues within the party behind Airlangga’s resignation. “Perhaps, it raises a question that something is wrong, there's something. Perhaps, Airlangga has now realized that he’s on the wrong track which could also be the reason he resigned, or after he could no longer be 'managed', he was pressured to resign,” said Palar as reported by Antara.

He described the resignation as a "political tsunami" with potential implications for other political parties if not addressed.

Meutya Hafid, Golkar Party’s chairwoman of the central executive board, expressed support for Airlangga's decision, emphasizing his rights. She also denied any external pressure against Airlangga. “His (Airlangga Hartarto's) decision was made personally without coercion,” said Meutya.

RACHEL FARAHDIBA R | AISYAH AMIRA WAKANG | ANTARA

Editor’s Choice: Pros and Cons of Bahlil Replacing Airlangga Hartarto as Golkar Chair

Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo in Google News