Gerindra Respects PDIP's Decision to Become a Balancing Party

The General Chairperson of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP), Megawati Soekarnoputri, has affirmed her party’s position towards the government of President Prabowo Subianto as that of a counterweight party. Partai Gerindra has accordingly expressed full respect for PDIP’s internal decision.

“Partai Gerindra fully respects the internal decision of PDIP under the leadership of Ibu Megawati Soekarnoputri to position itself as a counterweight party. For Gerindra, every political party possesses full sovereignty to determine its direction of struggle and its position within the national political constellation,” said Partai Gerindra Spokesperson Sugiat Santoso to journalists on Friday (10/7/2026).

Sugiat asserted that the relationship between Prabowo and Megawati is a genuine friendship that has been tested by time. According to him, the difference in political positions—with one in government and the other taking on the role of a counterweight—will never erode the personal bond and mutual respect between the two national figures.

“Even though she is outside the government, the friendship between Ibu Megawati and Pak Prabowo serves as an anchor of national political stability. This emotional closeness ensures that the checks and balances mechanism in parliament will operate honourably, in a measured fashion, and far from the polarisation that damages unity,” said Sugiat.

Sugiat added that Gerindra shares many common views with PDIP that the national political culture is one of gotong royong (mutual cooperation). Under this principle, all elements of the nation, whether within government or acting as a counterweight, share equal responsibility for the progress of the Republic of Indonesia.

“The government of President Prabowo views criticism, corrections, and input from a counterweight party not as a form of enmity, but rather as vitamins for democracy. Gerindra welcomes PDIP’s commitment to overseeing the course of government through criticism that is objective and based on fulfilling the rights of the people,” he continued.

According to Sugiat, this political choice will not diminish the respect and good relations between Partai Gerindra and PDIP, nor the historic personal relationship between Prabowo and Megawati.

“As for whether the people are confused or not (by PDIP’s stance), let the people decide for themselves. However, for Partai Gerindra there is no problem—our relationship with PDIP is perfectly fine,” said Sugiat.

A similar sentiment was expressed by another Gerindra Spokesperson, Bahtra Banong. Bahtra affirmed that the party greatly appreciates PDIP’s stance as a counterweight party.

“In principle, we appreciate and respect what Ibu Megawati Soekarnoputri has conveyed regarding PDIP’s position. And Pak Prabowo also stated clearly in his speech at the House of Representatives, expressing thanks to all parties, both those that joined the government and those outside it,” said Bahtra.

“Pak Prabowo stated firmly his gratitude to all parties, wherever their position may be, whether in government or outside it. What is certain is how we continue to do our best for the interests of the nation and the state,” he added.