Jakarta. Former President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo is expected to remain an important political figure in Indonesia, with many productive years ahead of him at the age of 63. A political analyst suggests that Jokowi’s influence could be further strengthened by establishing his own political party.

During his decade-long presidency, Jokowi distinguished himself from his predecessors by prioritizing large-scale infrastructure projects. From toll roads connecting major islands and dams in remote provinces to modern transportation systems in Greater Jakarta and Southeast Asia’s first high-speed train connecting Jakarta and Bandung, his tenure was marked by transformational development .

Jokowi’s political influence was evident in the February 2024 presidential election, where Prabowo Subianto won a decisive victory on his third attempt, thanks in part to Jokowi’s implicit support. Jokowi’s son, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, further strengthened this influence as Prabowo’s running mate.

Agung Baskoro, executive director of research agency Trias Politica Strategis, said Jokowi continues to enjoy significant electoral appeal, making him an invaluable asset for any political party. Alternatively, Agung suggested that Jokowi could build on his momentum by forming a new political party.

“By establishing his own party, Jokowi could fully exploit his political strength alongside his loyal supporters,” Agung said in an interview with BTV.

Speculation about Jokowi’s next political move has intensified since the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P) recently confirmed that he was no longer part of the party.

Tensions between Jokowi and the PDI-P emerged in the run-up to the presidential election after the latter refused to support the party’s candidate, Ganjar Pranowo.

“Jokowi’s political journey is far from over. Whichever path he chooses – whether joining an existing party or founding a new one – he will remain a dominant force in the landscape Indonesian politics,” Agung said.

Agung noted that several parties, including Golkar, President Prabowo’s Greater Indonesia Movement Party (Gerindra) and the National Mandate Party (PAN), have expressed interest in recruiting Jokowi as a senior executive.

Given Jokowi’s enduring influence, any party that successfully integrates him would gain a substantial political advantage.

“Jokowi is not just another politician,” Agung concluded. “His unique charisma and unparalleled ability to mobilize voters make him a rare and invaluable figure on the Indonesian political scene.”

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