An official with the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P) has maintained that they party would position itself as a government balancer − not an opposition force − following its recent national congress, dismissing speculations that it would join the upcoming administration by nominating ministers.

“PDI-P’s political stance is clear: we are a balancer,” PDI-P spokesperson Ansy Lema said. “In our presidential system, there is no such thing as formal opposition or coalition. We are outside the government, but we will support policies that align with Pancasila and the Constitution, and we will criticize those that do not.”

Lema cited that PDI-P’s role is to ensure checks and balances in a political landscape where most parties are aligning with the incoming administration.

“This is healthy for the quality of democracy,” he added. “Nation-building requires gotong royong [mutual cooperation], and that can happen both inside and outside of government.”

He dismissed circulating rumors that PDI-P will be rewarded with ministerial posts.

“That’s not true. The national congress, which is our highest forum, has decided our political direction. We are not joining the government,” he said.

Lema also confirmed that PDI-P Chairwoman Megawati Soekarnoputri continues to hold the dual role of chair and secretary general. “Only Ibu [Megawati] has the prerogative to appoint a new secretary general, and that decision is entirely hers. No one else in the party has the authority to speculate or comment on it,” he said.

PDI-P’s declaration marks a critical moment in Indonesia’s post-election transition. As one of the largest political parties choosing to remain outside the formal ruling coalition, it is expected to play a significant role in providing oversight and ensuring that democratic values are upheld.

PDI-P held its National Congress in August 1-2, 2025 in Bali. It served as the party’s highest decision-making forum, convening to determine its political direction, leadership structure, and strategic stance for the next political cycle.

The timing of the congress was significant as it occurred after PDI-P’s presidential candidate, Ganjar Pranowo, failed to win the 2024 presidential election. The results forced the party − which had held a dominant position for a decade under the presidency of Joko Widodo − to re-evaluate its role in the evolving political landscape.