PDIP Opens Option to Field Risma Again for East Java Governor in 2029

The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) is considering fielding Tri Rismaharini, affectionately known as Risma, for the East Java gubernatorial election in 2029. Hasto Kristiyanto, the party's Secretary-General, indicated that PDIP is actively nurturing potential leaders, including Risma, who has a significant political background.

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Yes, we continue to do grooming (cadre development). Those who have the potential as leaders and are able to meet the people's expectations will certainly be given space in PDI Perjuangan, including young people.

Risma previously served two terms as the Mayor of Surabaya and later as the Minister of Social Affairs. Kristiyanto highlighted that PDIP continuously develops cadres capable of meeting public expectations, ensuring opportunities for them to run in elections remain open. He emphasized the importance of leaders embodying the "spirit of struggle" of national figures like Bung Karno and Bung Hatta.

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The requirement is that they have the soul and spirit of struggle like Bung Karno, Bung Hatta, and other national figures.

In the 2024 East Java gubernatorial election, PDIP supported Risma alongside KH Zahrul Azhar Asumta. However, this pairing was unsuccessful, losing to the incumbent governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa and her running mate Emil Elestianto Dardak. Kristiyanto pointed to Risma's successful tenure as mayor and her subsequent roles as examples of the party's effective cadre development.

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Mrs. Tri Rismaharini, for example, she was recruited from the civil servant ranks. Her leadership was honed, she met with Ibu Mega, was given the opportunity to be mayor for two terms and was very successful, then was trusted to become Minister of Social Affairs, and is now the Head of the DPP for Disaster Management.

Beyond Risma, Kristiyanto mentioned that PDIP has numerous other potential candidates for the East Java governorship, including 12 current regional heads and 19 members of the national parliament from the province. The party believes its strong organizational machinery and the success stories of its regional leaders in East Java provide a solid foundation for future electoral contests.

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If we look at the consolidated democratic climate, there are candidates emerging from regional heads, we have 12 regional heads here. There are also members of the DPR RI, we have a significant number, around 19 people from East Java. The party also conducts political education and open recruitment.