JOKOWI TO SUPPORT SON FROM BEHIND THE SCENES
PSI, known primarily as a political party comprising young supporters of Jokowi, was established in 2014 but has yet to garner enough votes to secure a seat in the national parliament.
However, it has managed to increase its supporters over the years.
Kaesang joined PSI in September 2023 and was named its chairman two days later.
Questions over Widodo’s health have made the news in recent days due to a change in his appearance, but analysts said this is unlikely to have been a factor in his decision not to join the PSI leadership contest.
Some swelling and dark spots on his face were observed when he appeared last Saturday to greet birthday well-wishers, triggering speculation over his health.
But an aide told the media that Widodo is physically fine and “very, very healthy”.
Changes to his skin are due to allergies he is said to have suffered after returning from the Vatican, where he attended Pope Francis’ funeral on Apr 26. His condition is improving, added Jokowi’s aide, Syarif Muhammad Fitriansyah.
Analysts told CNA that Kaesang will likely continue to lead the party while Widodo supports him from behind the scenes as part of efforts to strengthen his political dynasty.
“This means that Jokowi will maximise his political power through Kaesang,” said political analyst Adi Prayitno from Universitas Islam Negeri Syarif Hidayatullah.
Besides Kaesang, the youngest of three children, Widodo’s oldest child and son-in-law are also in politics.
Gibran Rakabuming Raka, 37, is Indonesia’s current vice-president while North Sumatra governor Bobby Nasution, 33, is married to Jokowi’s daughter.
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