Jokowi's Regional Visits Aim to Maintain Political Influence, Says Hendri Satrio

Political observer Hendri Satrio, popularly known as Hensa, believes that the plan by Indonesia’s 7th President, Joko Widodo (Jokowi), to tour various regions is not solely about strengthening support for specific political figures. According to Hensa, this move can be understood as part of a long-term political strategy to ensure the continuity of his political influence and his family’s position in the future.

“Jokowi is descending from the mountain, not merely to promote Gibran, PSI, or Kaesang,” Hensa stated during a discussion organised by the Indonesian Association of Communication Scholars (ISKI) in Jakarta on Wednesday (3/6/2026).

The founder of the KedaiKOPI Survey Institute noted that the political dynamics leading up to the 2029 General Election remain highly open. Consequently, he believes various political figures will begin taking strategic steps to maintain their political influence and networks.

Hensa assessed that Jokowi must also account for various possible political configurations that may form in the future. “He must take precautions; if in 2029 the President is not Prabowo, or his children do not succeed as Vice President or President, then his and his family’s safety could be threatened,” he said.

According to Hensa, no situation in politics is entirely certain. Therefore, political figures typically take anticipatory measures to face potential changes in the political constellation. “Jokowi needs to seek safety because he could be targeted by a President who might become his opposition if he does not do this; indeed, there is no guarantee that Prabowo will not become Jokowi’s opposition in 2029,” he added.

Furthermore, Hensa views Jokowi’s current actions as part of an effort to maintain the continuity of the political influence built during his two terms in office. He cited the strategic position of Jokowi’s family, which remains significant following the 2024 Election and the election of Gibran Rakabuming Raka as Vice President. “He succeeded in 2024 in safeguarding his family through support for Prabowo and pushing Gibran as Vice President. However, 2029 could change, so he must once again seek a safe path,” concluded Hensa.