NU and politics

NU and politics

From Koran Tempo

The paternalistic and less-than democratic culture of the
Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) may have a negative impact on the Muslim
organization, the country's largest, which has lately been
plagued by a worsening feud leading to further internal friction.

As the two main leaders of the NU central board, Solahuddin
Wahid and Hasyim Muzadi, took part in the presidential election
as vice presidential candidates, the feud reached its peak with
the emergence of intrigue and unfounded charges against fellow
clerics.

In order to prevent serious friction between the NU's leaders
and the exploitation of the NU for political purposes, the
central board should make new rules for NU members wishing to
enter the political spheres. In this way, the NU will not be used
for personal interests.

Unless clear-cut rules are laid down to save the NU, the
internal conflict will most likely develop into a split in the
organization. Meanwhile, those involved in the feud or those
directing their followers toward practical politics should
exercise restraint for the sake of the NU's future.

MURTADHO ALI
Jakarta