Golkar Set to Confirm Jokowi Ally Bahlil Lahadalia as New Chief

Golkar, Indonesia's second-largest political party, is set to confirm Bahlil Lahadalia, an ally of President Joko Widodo, as its new chief. This move is perceived as an effort by President Widodo to retain influence after stepping down in October. Party members have shown widespread support for Bahlil.

Golkar, Indonesia's second-largest political party, is expected to inaugurate a key ally of President Joko Widodo as its new chief on Wednesday, signaling a strategic move by the outgoing president to retain influence post-office.

Bahlil Lahadalia, the recently appointed energy minister and staunch supporter of President Widodo, is set to be confirmed as Golkar's new chair. Two senior party members informed Reuters of Bahlil's approval as the sole candidate. Ace Hasan Syadzily, a senior member, stated, 'All the regional chiefs have declared their support for Bahlil. This afternoon, we will officially announce him as the new chairman.'

The expedited congress, initially planned for December but brought forward due to Airlangga Hartarto's surprise resignation, will conclude on Wednesday. Sources indicate that President Widodo, known popularly as Jokowi, has been strategically positioning himself to retain a power base through Golkar post-presidency. Bahlil and spokespersons for both the president and Bahlil were unavailable for immediate comment. In October, President-elect Prabowo Subianto and Vice-President-elect Gibran Rakabuming Raka, Jokowi's eldest son, will take office.

(With inputs from agencies.)