Gus Lilur's Message Ahead of NU's 35th Congress: As Long As Not a Corruptor

Nahdlatul Ulama will hold its 35th Congress in July–August 2026, preceded by the National Deliberation (Munas) and Grand Conference (Konbes) in April 2026.

HRM Khalilur R Abdullah Sahlawiy, or Gus Lilur, views this series of events as an opportunity to open a new chapter in the organisation’s journey.

“However, every new chapter only has meaning if it is written with new values as well. If not, it merely becomes a repetition of old problems in a different format,” he said in his statement on Thursday, 23 April 2026.

He added that the NU Congress should not merely be seen as a forum for leadership transition but as an arena for determining the organisation’s moral direction.

“It is at that point that one principle needs to be clearly affirmed: abuktor or as long as not a corruptor,” he added.

According to Gus Lilur, this principle is important due to the reality faced by the NU Executive Board (PBNU) at present, which is experiencing a crisis of trust. From a social science perspective, NU is not just a religious organisation but a social network that supports public trust.

“If that trust is disrupted, what is damaged is not only the organisation but also the broader social cohesion,” he said.

Therefore, he continued, the NU Congress must begin with efforts to restore trust, but such restoration is impossible without integrity.

Gus Lilur assesses that the integrity crisis in PBNU is very real at present, particularly related to Hajj governance issues—from quotas, catering, accommodation, to service procurement. Regardless of the ongoing legal processes, these issues have already impacted public perception.

“Thus, ethically and organisationally, PBNU officials who are implicated or indicated in corruption practices do not have a strong moral basis to continue their leadership in the next period,” said Gus Lilur.

He noted various dynamics developing ahead of the NU congress, one of which is the consolidation of various groups with their respective interests.

This is evident from the consolidation of PMII alumni in the IKA PMII Halal Bihalal forum some time ago.

“I agree with Muhaimin and Nusron that PMII alumni need to reclaim leadership in PBNU. Not only that, not just PMII alumni, even HMI alumni, GMNI, and other youth organisations, are very worthy of filling positions in PBNU,” said Gus Lilur.