New Chapter for Golkar in West Java Tests Daniel's Acumen in Selecting Leadership

The leadership change within the Golkar Party in West Java at the 2026 Regional Conference has attracted attention from academic circles. Two names are in the spotlight: Daniel Mutaqien, who was elected by acclamation as chairman, and Ahmad Hidayat, a strong candidate for chairman who withdrew just before the selection process. Ahmad Hidayat is reportedly a leading candidate to serve as Secretary of the Golkar Party in West Java. Political observer from Parahyangan Catholic University (Unpar), Kristian Widya Wicaksono, views Hidayat’s withdrawal as a strong candidate as reflecting a common pattern in political parties. “There are internal groups with significant influence, especially in the contest for strategic positions,” he explained. Ahmad Hidayat is known as a figure close to West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi, who previously served as Chairman of Golkar in West Java. It is no surprise that Ahmad Hidayat’s name is being widely pushed and has the potential to become Secretary of Golkar in West Java. “Regarding this, I see it from two sides. On one side, Ahmad’s closeness to KDM can serve as a bridge for communication between Golkar and the West Java Provincial Government,” Kristian stated. On the other hand, the strategic secretary position could potentially create perceptions of external influence within the party if not managed clearly. “It can become a strong communication channel, but it can also raise internal suspicions if seen as too close to interests outside the party,” he emphasised. Towards 2029 He added that the impact of this structure arrangement could also influence the political map heading towards 2029, especially if it fails to build a sense of togetherness within the party. Previous experiences show that elite conflicts at the provincial level can quickly spread to lower levels if decisions are seen as not representing all factions. Therefore, he continued, it is very important to arrange the leadership structure prioritising balance, not just job distribution. “The organisational structure must be built with the logic of balance, considering the spread of support, regional representation, and wing organisations, so that no faction feels sidelined,” he said. In addition, clear task division, including in communication with external parties, is considered important to maintain the party’s independence and prevent new conflicts in the future. “So, a healthy structure is not the one announced the fastest, but the one divided most fairly, with the clearest boundaries, and the strongest oversight mechanisms,” he stated. Furthermore, Kristian sees the current dynamics within the Golkar Party in West Java not merely as a personal matter, but as part of the influence struggle within the party that often occurs in the process of job distribution. “This is more accurately read as an influence struggle within the party, not just about liking or disliking one figure,” he emphasised. Ahmad Hidayat’s step in not continuing his candidacy in the Regional Conference is part of internal political compromise.