September 3, 2026 | 08:14 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The General Chairperson of the Democratic Party, Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY), stated that shifts in the party's position across different administrations are common within political dynamics. Regardless of whether the Democratic Party sits in opposition or joins a government coalition, the eldest son of former President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono emphasized the party's commitment to upholding democracy.
AHY delivered the message during the Democratic Party's 25th anniversary celebration at the Yudhoyono Auditorium in Jakarta on Tuesday, September 1, 2026.
"The Democratic Party has gone through various phases in its national political journey, from being part of the government for 10 years, sitting outside the government, to once again joining President Prabowo Subianto's government. These experiences are part of the maturation process for the Democratic Party," he said in a written statement quoted on Thursday, September 3, 2026.
According to AHY, these shifting roles have in no way altered the Democratic Party's dedication to democracy. In his remarks, he emphasized that upholding democracy remains one of the party's three core agendas, alongside advancing the economy and pursuing justice.
The Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development believes that democracy is not the ultimate goal, but rather a path to steer Indonesia toward progress and prosperity. Therefore, constitutionally grounded, responsible freedom must be consistently maintained, including providing space for the younger generation to participate.
As the party reaches its 25th year, AHY urged all Democratic Party cadres to write a fresh chapter for the organization. He expressed hope that the Democratic Party will grow closer to the public, remain relevant to contemporary developments, and make a greater contribution to Indonesia moving forward. "So, positions may change. But our commitment to democracy must not change," AHY added.
According to AHY, changing times demand that the Democratic Party continually adapt without losing its identity. Therefore, reflecting on the party's 25-year journey during the event serves as an opportunity to draw lessons from the past and prepare steps for future challenges.
AHY stated that the Democratic Party does not merely seek validation, but requires constructive criticism to serve as a basis for evaluation so the party can understand the needs of the people. "Buildings may change, generations may change, but one thing must not change: the Democratic Party must always be with the people," he concluded.
Read: Why Indonesia's Democracy Has Remained Unhealthy
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