Megawati: PDI-P Will Be a Critical Balance in President Prabowo's Administration

NUSA DUA, KOMPAS — The Chairperson of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle or PDI-P, Megawati Soekarnoputri, stated that her party will serve as a balancing force in the administration of President Prabowo Subianto. PDI-P will support government policies that are pro-people, while also maintaining a critical and firm stance against any deviations from the values of Pancasila and the mandate of the people's suffering.

Megawati, in the closing of the VI PDI-P Congress at the Bali Nusa Dua Convention Center, Saturday (2/8/2025), highlighted one of the common misconceptions that often occurs in Indonesian democracy. She stated that in a presidential system of government, such as that adopted by Indonesia, the terms opposition and coalition are not recognized as they are in a parliamentary system.

"Indonesian democracy is not a power-blocking democracy, but a democracy based on the sovereignty of the people and the constitution. The constitution is the highest authority," he stated.

For this reason, Megawati emphasized that PDI-P will not take a position as an opposition, but will also not merely build a coalition of power. On the contrary, the party will act as a constitutional balance that is critical of government policies.

"We are an ideological party, standing on the truth, siding with the people, and taking a firm stance as a counterbalance to ensure that the direction of national development remains on the track of the constitution and the interests of the broader public," said Megawati.

PDI-P, Megawati continued, will support President Prabowo's pro-people policies. However, her party will also take a critical and firm stance against any deviations from the values of Pancasila, social justice, and equitable law.

We are an ideological party, standing on the truth, siding with the people, and taking a firm stance as a counterbalance to ensure that the direction of national development remains on the track of the constitution and the interests of the broader public.

The fifth President of the Republic of Indonesia reminded that a party's stance is not determined by its position within or outside the government, but rather by the truth and political morality taught by the nation's founders, particularly Soekarno. "The PDI Perjuangan will continue to be a pioneer in the struggle for the people," he asserted.

In her political speech, Megawati also touched upon the importance of the party cadres' presence among the people in every political endeavor. According to her, the true loyalty of a cadre is not measured by their eloquence in speaking, but rather by their willingness to engage directly and unite with the people.

"I do not need cadres who are merely skilled in rhetoric. I need cadres who are willing to go down to the grassroots," he stated.

He reminded that the party should not be used as a tool to gain power or personal wealth. "Always carry out my instructions with full loyalty. If you are not ready, it is better to step down honorably. Do not make this party a arena for continuously seeking power and personal wealth," he stated.

Megawati also reminded her cadres about the situation in the Middle East, which she believes should be closely monitored. This is because it has the potential to impact Indonesia, particularly in economic aspects.

"I just called Mr. Zuhairi. I asked him about the situation in the Middle East. He said that the situation is not very good. What I continue to observe is the situation between Iran, which seems to be on the verge of being attacked by Israel," he said.

Megawati expressed concern that strategic routes like the Strait of Hormuz would be disrupted by the conflict. "My biggest concern is if the Strait of Hormuz is closed. So, don't think too narrowly about things like this. Why is this lady talking about foreign affairs?" she said.

He reminded that such global issues can directly impact the lives of the Indonesian people. He urged all PDI-P cadres to continue learning, understand the global landscape, and not to be apathetic towards international issues that could affect national stability.

"We must consider whether there is an impact on Indonesia. There certainly is. Because if the Strait of Hormuz is closed, that is what I am concerned about. What could be the consequences for us? Oil prices could rise. This needs to be studied thoroughly. Party members must know and understand," he emphasized.