Indonesian intellectual suggests reviewing NU's ban on dual leadership roles

KH Ahmad Baso, an Indonesian Islamic intellectual and prolific writer on NU history and thought, has called for a review of the current prohibition on holding dual positions within Nahdlatul Ulama (NU). He argues that this rule, stipulated in NU's bylaws (ART), does not fully align with the historical practices of the organization's founders, including KH Hasyim As'ari.

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If we look at the great history of NU, from the founders to the Rais Akbars, we will find that NU has never applied overly rigid rules in its cadre and leadership processes.

Baso, known for his works on NU studies, Islam Nusantara, and pesantren traditions, highlighted that NU founder KH Hasyim As'ari served not only as Rais Akbar (Supreme Leader) of NU but also as Chairman of the Syuro Council of the Masyumi Party. This historical precedent, Baso contends, demonstrates that NU's founding scholars did not rigidly enforce strict leadership boundaries.

"If we look at the great history of NU, from the founders to the Rais Akbars, we will find that NU has never applied overly rigid rules in its cadre and leadership processes," Ahmad Baso stated during a discussion in Jakarta. He believes this historical experience should be a key consideration for the upcoming 35th NU Muktamar (Congress), scheduled for August 27-31 in Jombang, where changes to the organization's Articles of Association (AD/ART) will be discussed.

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That shows that in NU's history there is no rigid separation as is understood now.

Baso emphasized that the current ban on dual positions should not be seen as an immutable rule. He asserted that NU's organizational mechanisms and regulations have historically evolved to meet the demands of the times. He also noted that NU has employed various leadership selection methods throughout its history, including voting, candidate screening, and the Ahlul Halli wal Aqdi (AHWA) mechanism, with the Rais Aam occasionally using veto power. "Various mechanisms have been practiced by NU. Nothing is taboo in NU's historical experience to serve as a reference for building organizational mechanisms," he concluded.

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Various mechanisms have been practiced by NU. Nothing is taboo in NU's historical experience to serve as a reference for building organizational mechanisms.