Indonesian democracy will be more protected with PDI-P in opposition

Outgoing ruling party can return to role as advocate for ordinary citizens

Virdika Rizky Utama

March 11, 2024 17:00 JST

PDI-P presidential nominee Ganjar Pranowo greets supporters on Feb. 10: The party's return to opposition could be a chance to reinforce its commitment to democracy. © Reuters

Virdika Rizky Utama is a researcher with the think tank PARA Syndicate in Jakarta.

Although Indonesian President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo looks set to leave office later this year with his immense popularity largely intact, his party's candidate appears to have lost badly in the race to succeed him.