GASPOL Today: Misguided Thinking on PBNU Mining Affairs

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU) General Secretary Saifullah Yusuf, or Gus Ipul, has spoken out on the issue of mining concession disputes within the organisation’s internal circles.

He denied that mining affairs are the primary issue sparking the internal PBNU conflict between its General Chairman Yahya Cholil Staquf and Rais Aam PBNU KH Miftachul Akhyar.

“I don’t want to delve into the main cause. But if asked about mining because it’s been mentioned that there’s a scramble for mining concessions, frankly, this is misleading news,” said Gus Ipul in the Gaspol! Podcast aired on Kompas.com’s YouTube channel on Thursday (7/5/2026).

He claimed that allegations of pulling and tugging over mining matters involving himself and Gus Yahya are untrue.

“The dynamics depend on how we understand them; the issue (with Gus Yahya) is with the Syuriah board (PBNU), not with me,” he stated.

Gus Ipul admitted to severely restricting his involvement in the conflict involving Gus Yahya and the PBNU Syuriah board.

This is because the PBNU Secretary General has no authority to interfere in such matters.

“We are truly limiting ourselves, aware of our position, and ensuring that this does not lead to misinterpretations of what is happening in PBNU,” he explained.

Nevertheless, he acknowledged pressure from various parties urging him to run for the position of PBNU General Chairman at the 35th PBNU Congress scheduled for 1-5 August.

Currently, Gus Ipul has also been appointed as Chairman of the Organising Committee for the event.

“Indeed, many have asked if I want to continue to become the next general chairman. I replied, I am not worthy; I do not meet the requirements to become general chairman,” he added.