PDIP's Position Outside Government Not 'Grey', Says Political Observer

Political observer Herman stated that the position of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) outside the government is not ‘grey’ or ambiguous. He explained that Indonesia’s political system does not formally recognise an opposition, but is instead characterised by political parties either joining the government or remaining outside it. “The political system in Indonesia does not actually recognise an opposition, but is characterised by political parties that join the government or remain outside the government,” Herman told reporters on Friday (19/6/2026).

Herman deferred the assessment of whether PDIP’s position is ‘grey’ to the party itself. According to him, every party has the sovereignty to determine its stance towards the government. “It very much depends on the party’s attitude, and we respect the sovereignty and the right of parties outside the government to take a stance,” he said. “What is certain is that, to date, PDIP has chosen the path of being outside the government,” he added.

Previously, the Chairman of the PKB Faction in the DPR, Jazilul Fawaid, had urged PDIP to take a firm stance regarding its position towards President Prabowo Subianto’s administration. Jazilul said that an unclear stance could create a confusing impression. “I hope they just take a firm stance. If they are in the opposition, be the opposition. Don’t be grey. Because we are all working hard to realise what the President promised. All the programmes have been arranged,” Jazilul said at the parliamentary complex in Senayan, Jakarta, on Thursday (18/6). Jazilul was answering reporters’ questions about the alleged participation of Andi Widjajanto in a protest several days earlier.

Meanwhile, PDIP DPP Chairman Andreas Hugo Pareira responded to Jazilul’s request for PDIP to take a firm stance regarding its position towards President Prabowo Subianto’s government. Andreas asserted that his party is a balancing force outside the government. “A balancing party outside the government,” Andreas told reporters on Friday (19/6). “That is the decision of the party congress,” he continued.