Golkar Responds to PDI Perjuangan's 'Balancing Party' Stance: 'The Public Will Judge'

Golkar Party Secretary-General Sarmuji has responded to PDI Perjuangan Chairperson Megawati Soekarnoputri's statement defining her party's role as a "balancing party" in relation to President Prabowo Subianto's "Merah Putih" cabinet coalition. Sarmuji indicated that Golkar does not object to PDI Perjuangan's chosen political stance.

"It's up to PDI Perjuangan, whatever position they want, they can have it. The public will be the judge," Sarmuji stated in a phone interview on Thursday. He added that Golkar respects PDIP's decision, emphasizing that "politics is about attitude and action."

Megawati had previously issued an internal letter on July 1, 2026, outlining PDI Perjuangan's position as a balancing party within Indonesia's state system. She argued that Indonesia's presidential system does not recognize "blocs" of power or formal opposition, but rather a democracy centered on popular sovereignty and constitutional supremacy. In this framework, government continuity does not depend on a parliamentary majority, and a president cannot be removed except through impeachment.

Megawati cited political theorist Giovanni Sartori's concept of "responsible opposition," which suggests that opposition should not merely criticize but also bear responsibility for the system's stability. She contrasted this with "irresponsible opposition," which criticizes without regard for national stability or public welfare. PDI Perjuangan's adoption of the "balancing party" term, she explained, stems from this constitutional understanding, historical experience, and theoretical basis.