Didi Mahardhika: Nationalism Must Remain the Foundation in Statehood

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Grandson of Indonesia’s first president Soekarno, Didi Mahardhika Soekarno, believes that nationalism must remain the foundation in every practice of statehood. He stated that amid global pressures and domestic political dynamics, the voice of nationalism is regaining its relevance. “The biggest challenge facing the nation today is not just economic or geopolitical issues, but also the direction of democracy that is beginning to be practised incorrectly by some parties,” said Didi in a statement in Jakarta on Tuesday. He highlighted symptoms where democracy is no longer run as a healthy correction tool, but is used as an instrument to delegitimise the government. “Democracy should correct, not undermine the legitimacy of the state” is the line of thinking he promotes in viewing the current situation. “Criticism of the government is an important part of the democratic system. However, when that criticism no longer aims to improve, but instead systematically weakens public trust, what occurs is a distortion of democracy,” said Didi. He considers such practices dangerous, especially amid a global situation full of uncertainty. Polarisation triggered by political delegitimisation can erode national unity and weaken Indonesia’s position on the international stage. As the son of Rachmawati Soekarnoputri, Didi asserts that Indonesian democracy must remain grounded in the values of gotong royong, musyawarah, and national interests. He reminds that freedom of opinion must not turn into a tool for creating instability. He views that in the current situation, Indonesia needs political stability supported by constructive criticism, not attacks that weaken state legitimacy. For him, nationalism is not just about resisting external influences, but also maintaining domestic cohesion. Didi, who is also Deputy Secretary General of the DPP of the Gerindra Party, positions himself to continue promoting a national narrative that is soothing yet firm. He reminds that the struggle to safeguard Indonesia does not stop at independence, but continues in keeping the direction of democracy on a path that strengthens, rather than weakens, the nation. Amid the rapid flow of information and political contestation, Didi emphasises that nationalism and democracy should truly go hand in hand and mutually reinforce each other for the integrity and future of Indonesia.