Golkar Set to Inaugurate Energy Minister as New Chief

Indonesia's second-largest political party, Golkar, is set to appoint Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia as its new chief. This move, supported by all regional chiefs, is expected to help outgoing President Joko Widodo retain influence even after stepping down in October.

Indonesia's second-largest political party, Golkar, is poised to announce a significant leadership change on Wednesday by appointing Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia as its new chief. The decision comes as all regional chiefs rallied behind Lahadalia, signaling strong internal unity.

Senior Golkar member Dave Laksono informed Reuters late on Tuesday that this leadership transition is expected to fortify the party's position and potentially extend outgoing President Joko Widodo's influence beyond his tenure, which concludes in October.

Widodo, who has been a prominent figure in Indonesian politics, may find in Lahadalia an ally capable of steering Golkar while maintaining alignment with his strategic priorities, thus shaping the nation's political future.

(With inputs from agencies.)