Executive Director of Political Research and Democracy Center, Jakarta.

Bahlil Lahadalia’s Rise to Golkar Chair: Navigating Post-Jokowi Politics

M. Anas Mahfudhi

2 min read

Following Airlangga Hartarto’s ousting, Bahlil Lahadalia has now officially assumed the position of Golkar Party Chairman. His election marks a significant shift in the party’s leadership, aligning Golkar more closely with President Jokowi’s inner circle. Bahlil’s rise is viewed as part of Jokowi’s broader strategy to maintain influence over the party even after his presidency ends in October 2024. This development reflects Golkar’s continuing importance as a major political force in shaping Indonesia’s post-Jokowi political landscape.

Bahlil Lahadalia’s Rise and Golkar’s Internal Dynamics

Bahlil’s election signals the culmination of long-running efforts to realign Golkar’s leadership. As a trusted ally of Jokowi and former Minister of Investment, Bahlil’s close ties to the president undoubtedly played a role in securing this position. His appointment reflects Jokowi’s influence within the party and may suggest the continuation of Jokowi-aligned policies, particularly regarding economic and investment agendas, such as IKN (Indonesia’s new capital).

The leadership shake-up comes after months of growing pressure for a change, with key figures such as Luhut Binsar Panjaitan (LBP) and former Golkar Chairmen Aburizal Bakrie and Jusuf Kalla playing critical roles in the behind-the-scenes power struggle. Bahlil’s ascent also coincides with the need for new leadership following Airlangga’s stagnating electability and his involvement in a corruption scandal.

What Happens to Bahlil Post-Jokowi?

As Jokowi prepares to leave office in October 2024, Bahlil’s leadership will face critical tests. Without Jokowi’s direct influence, Bahlil will need to navigate new power dynamics both within Golkar and Indonesia’s broader political scene. A few scenarios could emerge:

  1. Jokowi’s Continued Influence: Although Jokowi will no longer hold formal power, his legacy and personal influence could persist, particularly if Golkar remains aligned with his vision. Bahlil could serve as a key executor of Jokowi’s policies, particularly those linked to economic reform, infrastructure development, and the new capital project (IKN). If Jokowi remains an informal advisor or influencer, Bahlil’s leadership may continue to thrive under this arrangement.
  2. Aligning with Prabowo’s Government: With Prabowo Subianto and Gibran Rakabuming Raka (Jokowi’s son) set to assume the presidency and vice presidency, Bahlil may need to adjust Golkar’s positioning to align with the new administration’s policies. Golkar’s traditional pragmatism could see Bahlil navigating between maintaining Jokowi’s legacy and supporting Prabowo’s government.
  3. Potential Challenges from Within: Despite his current support, Bahlil could face internal challenges within Golkar as the party adjusts to life after Jokowi. Power brokers such as Bakrie or Kalla might attempt to influence or reshape the party’s direction if they see opportunities to steer Golkar toward their preferred candidates or policies.
  4. Bahlil’s Own Ambitions: If Bahlil successfully consolidates power within Golkar, he could leverage his position to build a political career independent of Jokowi’s influence. As a rising figure in Indonesian politics, Bahlil may seek to strengthen his leadership in the party and establish himself as a key national player, potentially positioning himself for higher office in future elections.

The Future of Golkar Under Bahlil

Bahlil’s leadership could reshape Golkar’s role in the coming years, positioning the party as a crucial player in both supporting Prabowo’s administration and maintaining the legacy of Jokowi’s presidency. The party’s vote increase in 2024 provides Bahlil with a solid mandate, but navigating the political waters post-Jokowi will require strategic alliances, adaptability, and the ability to manage competing internal and external interests.

Bahlil’s first major test will come as the Prabowo-Gibran government is inaugurated, and Golkar must decide how to position itself in this new era. With Jokowi stepping down, Bahlil will need to carefully balance Golkar’s historical loyalty to power with its future ambitions, ensuring the party remains a dominant force in Indonesian politics.

Editing/Copy editing by AK, Omong-Omong Media Special English Editor

M. Anas Mahfudhi
M. Anas Mahfudhi Executive Director of Political Research and Democracy Center, Jakarta.

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