NU Congress Urged to Elect Leaders Meeting Nine Essential Criteria

The 35th Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) Congress, scheduled to take place in Jombang, East Java, from 27–31 August 2026, will select the new leadership for the Nahdlatul Ulama Executive Board (PBNU). The organisation’s highest forum is expected to produce leaders capable of maintaining NU’s role as a religious and social organisation amidst modern challenges.

NU activist and young figure Hatim Gazali noted that the congress is not merely an event to elect a new chairman, but a pivotal moment to determine the organisation’s direction in facing increasingly complex social, economic, political, and technological developments. He cited an Alvara Research Center survey from late 2025, which indicated that approximately 140 million Indonesians identify as Nahdliyin. He argued that this vast demographic places a significant responsibility on the PBNU leadership to safeguard NU’s role as both a socio-religious force and a pillar of civil society.

Consequently, Hatim identified at least nine criteria that future PBNU Chairman candidates should possess. These include the ability to act as a unifier amidst internal organisational dynamics, having strong roots within the pesantren (Islamic boarding school) environment, and possessing extensive experience in service ranging from local branches to the central board, alongside national and global perspectives.

Furthermore, candidates are deemed necessary to maintain the organisation’s independence by not being affiliated with political parties or holding political office. According to Hatim, an NU leader must also champion the interests of marginalised communities, preserve pesantren traditions while driving organisational modernisation, and possess scholarly capacity, organisational skills, integrity, and a proven track record of service.

“NU leaders need to possess national and global insights, maintain organisational independence by not being part of political parties or holding political positions, and be able to position NU as a civil society force that remains both critical and constructive,” Hatim stated in Jakarta on Sunday (2/8/2026).

He believes leadership with such character will uphold the dignity of the pesantren while strengthening NU’s contribution to addressing national issues and global challenges. He expressed hope that the 35th NU Congress would produce a figure who not only enjoys wide support but is also capable of maintaining organisational unity, strengthening service to the community, and leading NU into its second century with a vision adaptive to the changing times.

Hatim also urged Nahdliyin members to oversee the election process through regional and branch officials. He asserted that the assessment of candidates should be based on their track record of service, leadership capacity, integrity, and ability to uphold the organisation’s dignity.

“The Congress is only a month away. Nahdliyin members need to monitor branch and regional leaders to ensure they elect a chairman who meets these criteria,” said Hatim.