NU Figure Gus Salam Ready to Run for PBNU Chairmanship, Claims Support from Senior Clerics

As a publication deeply rooted in Indonesian society, particularly within the Islamic community, we view the potential candidacy of KH Abdussalam Shohib, or Gus Salam, for the leadership of Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU) with keen interest. Gus Salam's willingness to step forward, as reported, stems from a perceived need to address internal organizational challenges and what he terms 'pseudo-reconciliation.' This perspective resonates with many within NU who feel the organization's current trajectory requires serious attention from its dedicated functionaries.

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Kami memang punya keinginan untuk atau sedang melakukan ikhtiar untuk mendapatkan kepercayaan dalam pengabdian di NU pada muktamar yang akan datang.

From our vantage point, Gus Salam's emphasis on 'khidmah' (service) over mere ambition for position is a crucial distinction. It reflects a traditional understanding of leadership within NU, where service to the community and the organization is paramount. His claim of having secured blessings from senior clerics across Java, Kalimantan, and beyond, including respected figures like KH Nurul Huda Djazuli and KH Anwar Mansur, suggests a significant base of support grounded in established religious authority. This is a vital aspect of NU's internal politics, where the endorsement of 'kiai sepuh' (senior scholars) carries immense weight.

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Mohon maaf mungkin saya memang sedikit menghindari kata-kata kandidat atau mencalonkan karena kami menganggap di NU ini sifatnya pengabdian atau dalam bahasa kita khidmah.

What makes this development particularly noteworthy from an Indonesian perspective is the underlying tension between different factions within NU. Gus Salam's stated intention to unite these disparate groups addresses a long-standing concern for many members. While international media might focus on the power dynamics or potential leadership struggles, our focus is on the implications for the organization's spiritual and social mission. The ability of leaders like Gus Salam to bridge divides and foster genuine reconciliation is what truly matters for the future of this influential Islamic body, ensuring it remains a force for good in Indonesia and beyond.

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Hari ini situasi NU itu dalam kondisi yang benar-benar perlu untuk ada perhatian dari kami sebagai fungsionaris. Mulai dari isu-isu yang negatif sampai pada puncaknya konflik yang terjadi yang sampai hari ini belum bisa tuntas dengan sejati atau dengan sesungguhnya. Karena masih sebagian orang mengatakan masih islah semu, masih perdamaian yang semu bukan yang hakiki.