Golkar's Misbakhun Criticises PDIP's Ambiguous Stance: 'Two-Footed Politics Is Not Elegant'

Jakarta – Golkar Party’s Head of Economic Affairs, Mukhamad Misbakhun, has addressed the stance of several Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) elites who have recently been vocal in criticising the government amid national political dynamics. Misbakhun considers criticism in a democratic system to be normal and something that must be respected. However, he reminded that criticism should prioritise responsibility and not inflame a political situation already facing various challenges. “Criticism is important in a democracy so that the government continues to hear the aspirations of the people. However, in a situation where the nation is facing pressure due to the current geopolitical situation, criticism should be delivered with full responsibility, not in a way that makes the situation hotter. There needs to be an invitation to cool the atmosphere so that it subsides,” he told reporters on Sunday, 21 June 2026. The Chairman of Commission XI of the Indonesian House of Representatives said the government is currently open to various criticisms developing in society. He cited the handling of alleged irregularities in the Free Nutritious Meals Programme (MBG), which has now entered the law enforcement process. “The government listens to a lot of criticism and input, the proof is that law enforcement efforts are being carried out on the MBG,” he said. Furthermore, Misbakhun specifically highlighted the criticism delivered by a number of PDIP politicians. According to him, as a party with long experience leading the government, PDIP should be able to present more constructive criticism. “PDI Perjuangan has had long experience in operating the government and state policies. Therefore, the criticism delivered should be more mature, proportional, and solution-oriented, not adding heat to the situation,” said Misbakhun. In addition, he also touched on the party’s political position, which he believes must be clear, especially in its relationship with the administration of President Prabowo Subianto. Misbakhun considers it inappropriate for a party to take an ambiguous stance between supporting or being outside the government. According to him, a political party should not enjoy the positive impact when a government programme receives public appreciation, but immediately distance itself when the government faces problems or unpopular policies. “Do not position yourself as a balancer, but when a good government programme is appreciated, you also want to score points. Conversely, immediately launch harsh criticism when a government programme is facing problems. That two-footed political position is not elegant,” he said.