Gus Ipul Confirms He Will Not Run for PBNU Chairman

General Secretary of the Nahdlatul Ulama Executive Board (PBNU), Saifullah Yusuf or Gus Ipul, has firmly stated that he will not nominate himself as Chairman of PBNU at the forthcoming 35th Muktamar. The former Deputy Governor of East Java feels that he does not possess the qualifications or capacity to hold the top leadership position in Indonesia’s largest Islamic organisation. “Oh, no [nominating myself as PBNU Chairman]. If that’s it, no, I don’t have the right fit,” said Gus Ipul with a laugh, while inspecting the construction progress of Sekolah Rakyat Kedung Cowek in Surabaya on Monday (3/5). This statement also addresses the speculation circulating regarding the pool of candidates for chairman ahead of the Muktamar. Gus Ipul chooses to focus on the organisational tasks he is currently undertaking rather than entering the election contest. At the upcoming Muktamar, he will also serve as Chairman of the Organising Committee (OC). In addition to dispelling rumours of his candidacy, Gus Ipul provided confirmation on the schedule for the PBNU Muktamar. Based on the results of internal coordination through plenary meetings and joint meetings, the supreme forum will be held in August 2026. The implementation of the Muktamar, according to Gus Ipul, was determined after PBNU considered input from Nahdlatul Ulama Regional Boards (PWNU) across Indonesia, which conveyed their demands some time ago. Gus Ipul emphasised that the PBNU apparatus is currently conducting intensive preparations to ensure that the major agenda runs according to the determined schedule. “In line with the results of the decision meeting, yes, in accordance with the plenary meeting decisions and joint organising meetings, it is planned for August. This aligns with regional aspirations,” he said. Under the leadership of the Rais Aam and PBNU Chairman, all committee members and executives are now ensuring readiness in both technical and substantive aspects of the Muktamar. “Therefore, we are now working hard under the guidance of the Rais Aam and the Chairman to organise the Muktamar in August,” said Gus Ipul.