Jokowi's Nationwide Tour Could Backfire for PSI, Says Analyst

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - Jamiluddin Ritonga, a political communication analyst from Esa Unggul University, believes that the Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) needs to reconsider its plan to involve Jokowi in its political agenda.

According to Jamiluddin, this move is considered speculative for the elephant-symbol party.

“Hoping that Jokowi will boost PSI’s electability seems likely to lead to disappointment. In fact, Jokowi’s presence across the country carrying the banners of PSI could turn out to be a boomerang for the elephant party,” said Jamiluddin in a statement on Sunday (17/5/2026).

“Jokowi is no longer a figure who can mesmerize the nation into supporting him. Jokowi is currently a controversial figure, including regarding his educational qualifications,” added Jamiluddin.

The presence of Jokowi is not automatically expected to boost PSI’s electability. In fact, it could lead to many people having antipathy towards the party led by Kaesang Pangarep.

“Therefore, before Jokowi tours Indonesia carrying the banners of PSI, it should be carefully reassessed, weighing the pros and cons. It would be a shame if PSI fails to return to Senayan (the Indonesian Parliament) simply because it misjudged Jokowi’s influence,” he emphasized.

“Pak Jokowi is already with PSI. He will be with us, and we have appointed him as the political patron of PSI’s future struggle. We are just waiting for the right time, considering his health,” Bestari told Kompas.com on Thursday (14/5/2026).

Bestari then quoted Jokowi’s statement at the PSI National Working Meeting in January 2026, stating that he was ready to help with the campaign.

He said that it would not be long before Jokowi would accompany PSI in fulfilling its promise made in January.

“And this increasingly confirms public belief that Pak Jokowi is no longer everywhere else, but is with PSI, working together with PSI for the 2029 election victory,” continued the former Nasdem Party politician.