Solo Mayor Asked to Mediate Between Two Keraton Factions Over Suro Parade

Wali Kota Solo, Respati Ardi, has been asked to mediate between two factions of the Surakarta Sunanate regarding the organisation of the Malam 1 Suro parade. The two factions, led by PB XIV Purbaya and PB XIV Mangkubumi, are both planning to hold the parade on Tuesday evening (16/6). KPH Panembahan Agung Tedjowulan, the executor for the preservation, development, and utilisation of the Keraton Solo, has requested that Respati Ardi act as a mediator.

Respati stated that his administration remains neutral, positioning itself to ensure the smooth, orderly, and solemn conduct of the tradition while respecting all internal customary processes of the Kasunanan Surakarta Hadiningrat. “For us, the main priority is that the 1 Suro tradition proceeds solemnly, safely, and orderly. We respect the internal dynamics of the Keraton Kasunanan. The city government, together with the Forkopimda, will focus on security, traffic management, and the comfort of the public who wish to witness or participate in this series of events,” Respati said in a press release on Thursday (11/6).

The Solo city government has also coordinated with the Indonesian National Armed Forces and the National Police to ensure the event is safe and smooth. Respati expressed hope that the event could serve as a space for spiritual vigil and self-reflection. “I hope this event goes smoothly and that all parties and the community support the success of the 1 Suro Parade. May we derive direct benefits from this sacredness and use it as a space for self-reflection,” he explained. He also hopes the cultural activity will have a positive impact on the economy, adding, “The 1 Suro Parade is also a unique tourist attraction. I hope many guests will come to Solo. Let us together ensure the smooth running of the 1 Suro Parade.”

Previously, KGPH Panembahan Agung Tedjowulan had requested that Wali Kota Respati Ardi facilitate a meeting regarding the parade involving the two keraton factions. The meeting was planned for Saturday (13/6) or Sunday (14/6). When asked about the plan by Paku Buwono XIV Purbaya to also hold a pusaka parade on Malam 1 Suro, Tedjowulan declined to comment extensively, stating that the matter would be mediated by the Wali Kota.