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