Assessing the Potential Merger of Two Parties in the KIM Plus Coalition

Lately, discourse has surfaced regarding the idea of merging two major political parties in Indonesia. In response, Saan Mustopa, Vice Chairman of the NasDem Party, stated that such ideas are common in Indonesia. NasDem, one of the parties rumoured to be involved in this merger, has recently denied the notion.

Compiled from detikcom, the rumour is believed to have emerged around the time of a meeting between the leaders of the two parties, Surya Paloh and Prabowo Subianto. Although Saan confirmed the meeting between the two figures, he did not know the exact topics discussed.

“I don’t know precisely about the meeting, let alone the substance of what was discussed. Regarding the meeting between the party chairmen, Mr Surya and President Mr Prabowo, it might have happened because NasDem is part of the coalition party. This party is part of the government coalition,” said Saan Mustopa, quoted from detikNews on Monday (13/4).

On the merger idea, Saan Mustopa explained further that it must be backed by several considerations. Saan said there are at least three things that need to be discussed: ideology, existence, and identity of each party.

“Because building or founding a party, the founders of each party certainly have idealism, ideas, thoughts, and ideology in different contexts. Now, if there is a plan or discourse related to fusion, that factor also needs to be considered: ideology, identity, existence of each party,” said Saan.

What speculations can be drawn from this discourse? What are the common reasons used to decide to join or merge with another party? Watch the discussion with political expert from UIN Syarif Hidayatullah, Adi Prayitno.