Social Media Buzz: Is Anies Baswedan's New Party a Reality?

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The recent discourse surrounding the formation of a new community organization or political party has become a public spotlight on social media. This topic gained traction after former Jakarta Governor Anies Baswedan hinted at the possibility of establishing a new political party following his unsuccessful bid in the 2024 Regional Election.

In a video uploaded to his YouTube account on Friday, August 30, 2024, Anies expressed his intent to create a platform that would accommodate the growing desire for change within society.

“Let's look forward together, hopefully, it won't be too long before we can realize concrete steps to support the movement that is gaining momentum daily, seeking a more equitable Indonesia, a healthier democracy, and politics that prioritizes policy and ideas,” he stated in the video.

However, the question remains: Will Anies Baswedan lead this new party? 

Social Media Speculation

Following the circulation of Anies’ video statement, social media platforms, particularly X (formerly Twitter), were inundated with discussions and speculations about the potential formation of a new party called the Indonesian Change Party.

Many netizens expressed support for this idea, viewing it as a necessary step to strengthen democracy in Indonesia. However, others remained skeptical, questioning the need for such a new party and expressing concerns about its potential impact on the already divided political landscape.

Amidst the flurry of discussions, a form began circulating online, inviting the public to register as prospective members of the alleged Indonesian Change Party. The form even included an account number for donations.

However, Anies swiftly denied any involvement in the circular. He clarified that the circular and forms were not disseminated by his party.

“I want to emphasize that these materials do not originate from me, we have never circulated anything,” Anies said on his Instagram account @aniesbaswedan on Saturday, August 31, 2024.

He urged the public to exercise caution and maintain a critical perspective when evaluating such circulating information.

Anies Baswedan’s Intentions

Anies' statement in the YouTube video strongly suggested his consideration of forming a new mass organization or political party.

“If uniting the growing spirit of change that becomes a force needs to be established into a movement, perhaps forming a mass organization or a new party will be the path we’ll take. Let's see how things unfold in the future,” Anies said.

Although his statement is clear, Anies has not explicitly declared his leadership of the party. He has instead invited the public to wait for further developments and observe the concrete steps that will be taken in the near future.

This ambiguity has certainly led to various speculations regarding who might lead the new party or mass organization if it is indeed formed.

Sudirman Said has also been mentioned as a potential figure who might join Anies in forming a new party or mass organization. However, he has denied any involvement, emphasizing that he is not part of the plan.

Anies Baswedan acknowledged that the momentum for forming a new party stems from the public's desire for a healthier democracy and politics that prioritizes policies and ideas. However, many parties are still awaiting concrete steps related to the formation of this party or mass organization.

PUTRI SAFIRA PITALOKA | HENDRIK YAPUTRA

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