PKS: 'Acceleration' Discourse Before 2029 Is a Form of Political Provocation

JAKARTA — Pipin Sopian, head of the presidential chief of staff office at the Prosperous Justice Party (PKS), has described remarks by Projo chairman Budi Arie Setiadi about the possibility of an ‘acceleration’ before the 2029 general election as an unhealthy political provocation that is dangerous for Indonesian democracy.

According to Pipin, such discourse should not be thrown into the public sphere without a clear explanation of what is meant by ‘acceleration’ and through what constitutional mechanism it would be carried out.

‘I see Budi Arie’s statement as a form of political provocation. The term ’acceleration’ before 2029 is not a light statement. It could trigger speculation, commotion and political uncertainty among the public,’ said the politician from Purwakarta in a written statement on Wednesday (26/8/2026).

The PKS spokesperson stressed that Indonesia already has constitutional mechanisms governing the presidential term of office and the process of transferring power. Therefore, there must be no attempt to build public opinion as if a change or transfer of power could be carried out based on momentary political situations.

‘We must not play games with the constitution. The president has a mandate from the people to lead until 2029. That mandate must be respected and safeguarded together,’ he asserted.

The University of Indonesia political science alumnus also noted that the statement was delivered in a video showing former president Joko Widodo standing beside Budi Arie. He said his party did not wish to draw conclusions about Jokowi’s involvement, but the situation certainly raises questions among the public.