Gus Ipul Responds to Gus Yahya's Plan to Run Again for PBNU Chairmanship

Secretary General of the Nahdlatul Ulama Executive Board (PBNU), Saifullah Yusuf, known as Gus Ipul, has responded to KH Yahya Cholil Staquf’s decision to run again in the election for PBNU Chairperson. Gus Ipul stressed that anyone is free to declare their intention to compete for the position. “Anyone can participate in the upcoming general chairman election. I believe Nahdlatul Ulama does not lack cadres to become the general chairman in the future,” Gus Ipul said at the Parliament Complex, Senayan, Central Jakarta, on Wednesday (15/7). Gus Ipul revealed that the field of candidates for the new PBNU leader is becoming increasingly dynamic. Besides the incumbent Gus Yahya, he mentioned that several other figures from among ulama, regional structures, and academics are being widely discussed by nahdliyin members to lead NU going forward. “Yes, I think there are already many names. Among them are Kiai Zulfa Mustofa, Gus Yusuf Chudlori, Gus Salam Shohib. There is also Gus Kikin (KH Abdul Hakim Mahfudz), the Chairperson of PWNU East Java. And there is Prof. Nasaruddin Umar. Those are the names being mentioned. Including, of course, Gus Yahya, who entered the list most recently,” he elaborated. The former Deputy Governor of East Java added that the current focus of the central board is ensuring all stages leading up to the Congress in Jombang run smoothly and democratically. The organising committee is working hard to prepare the technical aspects and accommodation at Pondok Pesantren Tambakberas to welcome thousands of delegates from regional and branch boards across Indonesia. “Yes, we, the committee, are preparing. Hopefully, it will run smoothly, and we ask for your prayers,” Gus Ipul concluded.