Gus Ipul Reveals Early Preparation Phase for NU Congress 2026
Saifullah Yusuf (Gus Ipul), Secretary General of the Central Board of Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU), has announced that the 35th NU Congress will be held around July or August 2026.
Speaking at a breaking-of-fast gathering for Ramadan 1447 Hijriah at the KH Hasyim Asy’ari Hall at the East Java Regional Board (PWNU) office in Surabaya on Sunday (15 March), Gus Ipul stated that the Congress is still in its initial preparation phase.
“There is no fixed date yet. We are currently entering the initial preparation phase heading towards the Congress,” he said in a written statement on Monday (16 March 2026).
At present, he confirmed that preparations for the Congress are the main focus. All stages are being processed, including ensuring which administrative boards meet the requirements to become participants.
Gus Ipul added that PBNU has formed a panel team to verify documents related to management decision letters that serve as the basis for determining Congress participants.
“The team is chaired by Rois Syuriah Prof. Muhammad Nuh. Other board members are part of the committee,” said Gus Ipul.
The panel team will be responsible for checking administrative completeness, particularly concerning management decision letters that must be signed in full by the Rais Aam (supreme leader), General Chair, and Secretary General.
Gus Ipul added that the location for the Congress is still under discussion. Several regional proposals have been submitted and will be considered by PBNU before being decided through an official meeting.
“There is the possibility it will be held in Java, and there is also the possibility of it being held outside Java. All proposals will be considered by PBNU and decided upon through a meeting,” said Gus Ipul.
In addition, Gus Ipul called on all NU regional and branch administrators throughout the country to focus their energy on Congress preparations to ensure the process runs smoothly.
“God willing, before August there will be a major conference as part of the preparation phase,” concluded Gus Ipul.