Indonesia election 2024: could rise of Jokowi’s ‘political clan’ boost Prabowo Subianto’s chances?
- The ascendancy of Kaesang Pangarep, Jokowi’s younger son, is a sign the president could be using his ‘clan’ to endorse Prabowo against his party’s wishes, analysts say
- In recent years, the electoral victories of Jokowi’s relatives have fuelled speculation he is ‘planting seeds’ for a political dynasty
Kaesang Pangarep, 28, was a member of the small Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) for only two days when he was appointed its chairman on Monday. The Singapore-educated political novice told reporters that he chose to join the party founded in 2014 to carve out his legacy, but he admitted he had earlier discussed the matter with his father.
Kaesang first came to public attention when he became an online influencer and a YouTuber, and later started several small businesses. After he indicated his interest in running for the office of Depok mayor, he was approached by PSI and joined the party last Saturday.
Grace Natalie, PSI’s first leader from 2014 to 2021, told This Week in Asia that the party had consulted President Widodo on the appointment.
“We have periodic meetings with Pak Jokowi. And as a young political party, we also seek his guidance as the country’s leader and someone who is very experienced in politics,” Natalie said, referring to Widodo’s nickname.
“We did casually mention what Pak Jokowi’s opinion would be if Kaesang were to join PSI. Pak Jokowi … said it was up to Kaesang. I have the impression he highly respects his children’s freedom to choose their path in life,” she added.