Is the Palace Meddling in the NU Congress? Here's What Gus Yahya Says

Ahead of the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) Congress, the Chairman of the NU Executive Board (PBNU), KH Yahya Cholil Staquf (Gus Yahya), has stressed the organisation’s independence from practical political interests. He denied any interference by the President or the State Palace in the organisation’s internal dynamics ahead of the congress. “I do not see any interest from the president or the palace to influence or meddle in NU matters. There is no benefit in it for the government or the president,” he said during a press conference at the PBNU Building on Jalan Kramat Raya 164, Jakarta, Tuesday (14/7/2026). Gus Yahya therefore urged NU members not to readily believe parties claiming to have received the President’s blessing or even orders regarding the congress. “If anyone claims, for example, that they have been blessed or even ordered by the president, it is definitely a lie,” he stated. Gus Yahya added that since its establishment, NU has been known as an independent organisation that is not easily swayed by irrelevant issues. “I am confident the president greatly respects NU,” Gus Yahya said. On that occasion, he also confirmed that the 35th NU Congress is ready to be held at the Bahrul Ulum Islamic Boarding School in Tambakberas, Jombang, East Java, from 27 to 31 August 2026. This congress will discuss strategic agendas concerning not only the organisation’s future but also the nation’s interests and the welfare of humanity.