Former President Jokowi Meets Prabowo, Sparks Speculation After Gerindra‘s Open Invitation
Former President Joko Widodo recently met with Prabowo Subianto, the chairman of the Gerindra Party, at Subianto’s residence, Rumah Kertanegara in South Jakarta. The December 6th dinner meeting fueled political speculation, coming shortly after the Gerindra Party publicly stated its openness to involving the former president in their political platform.
“Oh, Gerindra is open, but of course, we cannot force him to join,” Prabowo said, responding to inquiries about the encounter.
Jokowi, who recently stepped down from the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP), chuckled when questioned about joining another party. The former Jakarta governor clarified that he and Prabowo simply shared a friendly dinner.
Prabowo confirmed that he personally invited Jokowi after finding out he would be in Jakarta.
“He was the former president when he visited Merauke and then stopped in Solo.
This time when I’m in Jakarta, it’s like a return visit. Because I miss him,” Jokowi confided.
The meeting comes amid shifting political landscapes. Earlier, PDIP secretary-general Hasto Kristiyanto emphasized that Jokowi and his family no longer represent the party, though they retain membership cards.
“I reiterate that Mr. Jokowi and his family are no longer part of the PDIP,” Hasto declared at the party school in
Jakarta on December 4th. He elaborated that there would be no political limitations per se, stating that Jokowi’s eldest son, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, and his son-in-law, Bobby Afif Nasution, would no longer represent PDIP if nominated by other parties in the 2024 presidential or regional elections.
While cleverly avoiding confirmation, the meeting follows Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s decision to diverge from PDIP in the 2024 presidential race. The former mayor of Solo even chose Prabowo as his running mate for the 2024 presidency. This partnership comes with the backing of the Indonesian Forward Coalition (KIM),
which comprises the Gerindra Party, Golkar Party, Amanat National Party, Democratic Party, Indonesian Solidarity Party, Crescent Star Party, and the Glory Party.
In contrast, the PDIP has chosen Ganjar Pranowo-Mahfud Md as their preferred candidate for the 2024 Presidential Race.
Bobby Afif Nasution also selected Gerindra after receiving unwavering support during his run for North Sumatra Governor with the backing of KIM Plus.
Jokowi, along with Bobby, voiced support for Gibran’s political path.
What are the potential benefits for Gerindra Party from a closer alliance with Jokowi?
## Jokowi and Prabowo Meet: Is a New Political Alliance Brewing?
**Host:** Welcome back to the show! Today, we’re diving into the latest political buzz in Indonesia. Former President Joko Widodo, affectionately known as Jokowi, recently met with Prabowo Subianto, the chairman of the Gerindra Party, sparking widespread speculation about the future of Indonesian politics. Joining us today to unpack this meeting is Dr. Alex Reed, a prominent political analyst specializing in Indonesian politics. Dr. Alex Reed, thank you for being here.
**Dr. Alex Reed:** Thank you for having me. This meeting is certainly intriguing, especially given the context of Gerindra’s recent public statement welcoming Jokowi into their fold.
**Host:** Exactly! Let’s dive into that. Gerindra openly expressed their willingness to involve Jokowi in their political platform. What do you make of this overture?
**Dr. Alex Reed:** It’s a significant move. Gerindra recognizing Jokowi’s continued political influence, even after stepping down from PDIP, speaks volumes. Remember, as noted by analysts [ [1](https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/jokowi-retains-his-political-influence-in-indonesia-with-prabowo-as-next-president) ], Jokowi played a key role in Prabowo’s recent election win. This meeting could be seen as a way for Gerindra to solidify that relationship and potentially gain from Jokowi’s continued popularity and political acumen.
**Host:** But Jokowi seemed hesitant, even chuckling at the prospect of joining another party. How do you interpret his response?
**Dr. Alex Reed:** Jokowi’s reaction likely reflects his desire for a less partisan role. He might be aiming to act as a statesman-like figure, guiding Indonesian politics from outside the confines of a specific party. However, his history with Prabowo and his undeniable political influence make this meeting difficult to dismiss as purely social.
**Host:** Indeed! What are some of the possible implications of this meeting for Indonesian politics?
**Dr. Alex Reed:** We could see a new era of political alliances emerge. While Jokowi stated his intention to remain independent, this meeting could be the foundation for a closer working relationship between him and Gerindra. This might reshape the political landscape and influence policy directions in the years to come.
**Host:** Dr. Alex Reed, fascinating insights! Thank you so much for shedding light on this developing story. We’ll be sure to keep our viewers updated as this situation unfolds.
