Close To NU, Erick Tohir Should Be Considered As A Presidential Candidate

SOE Minister Erick Thohir (Photo: Antara)

JAKARTA - Erick Thohir's chance to become a presidential candidate in 2024 is considered to be getting stronger after recently being 'diligent' in penetrating politics into public networks.

One of them is close to the node of the largest Islamic organization in Indonesia, Nahdlatul Ulama (NU). Whereas Erick Thohir is currently the Minister of State-Owned Enterprises (BUMN).

Research Director for Indonesian Presidential Studies (IPS), Arman Salam, believes that Erick's recent closeness to NU has made the former chairman of the Jokowi-Ma'ruf winning team to be reckoned with as a presidential candidate.

"Erick's closeness to NU has now made him the prima donna of NU. This is proof that Erick is a figure to be reckoned with," said Arman, Thursday, February 10.

According to Arman, there are 3 factors that are considered by the public in choosing a presidential candidate. Namely, personality, performance and track record.

He said, the figure of Erick Thohir is one of the figures who have these 3 variables. Both in terms of performance, track record and personal character.

"This variable, for example, in terms of performance, which is considered quite good in providing excellent service, touches and a new arrangement for BUMN, which was previously chaotic, is now better and more professional," he explained. Even so, Arman reminded, that when compared to other candidates, Erick still has a low recognition rate. However, Erick's high level of liking becomes the potential to boost his electability.

"If the recognition rate can be pushed harder then the support will continue to increase as popularity increases," said Arman. Previously, SOE Minister Erick Thohir visited the Wahid Hasyim Islamic Boarding School (Ponpes) in Pasuruan, East Java some time ago in the context of gathering with the students and the young generation of Nahdatul Ulama (NU).

During the gathering, Erick Thohir said he was proud because he had become part of the big NU family. According to him, NU is the perfect house for waqf for the greater interest, namely the welfare of the people and maintaining the sovereignty of the Republic of Indonesia.

"Banser and NU are the perfect home," said Erick Thohir in a talk show with the theme 'NU's Young Generation for Indonesia' in a written statement, Saturday, January 22.

Erick, who is also an honorary member of Banser, revealed that he had donated his life to the Indonesian people, especially as he currently serves as a Minister under the leadership of President Joko Widodo.

"I donate myself, moreover I am a public official for Indonesia, the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia and Pancasila. I have to sacrifice my egos for the greater good," he said