National Santri Day, PBNU Reminds Not To Be Rided By Political Interests

Chairman (PBNU) KH Yahya Cholil Staquf (ANTARA)

JAKARTA - The Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU) Executive Board reminded that the commemoration of National Santri Day should not be ridden by political interests, such as regional head elections (pilkada). It is known that National Santri Day is celebrated every 22 October.

Chairman (PBNU) KH Yahya Cholil Staquf said his party had issued a circular letter for regional administrators and administrators of the Nahdlatul Ulama branch throughout Indonesia.

"In the circular, we also warn you not to allow the commemoration of National Santri Day organized by NU to be carried with any interests related to the regional elections which will soon be held," said Yahya Cholil Staquf in his statement, Tuesday, October 22.

In commemoration of National Santri Day, PBNU held a kubro istighosah at Plaza PBNU, Monday night. Carrying the theme "Connecting the Juang Merengkuh Future" the event went smoothly and solemnly.

The series of commemoration of National Santri Day was continued with a commemoration ceremony which was held on Tuesday, October 22 at 06.00 WIB.

"We will hold a simple ceremony here. Followed by representatives from Nahdlatul Ulama autonomous bodies and organizations, such as Muslimat NU, GP Ansor, Fatayat, IPNU, and IPPNU, along with the top management of Nahdlatul Ulama," he said.

His party also asked the NU management throughout Indonesia to hold a prayer together or istighosah. Then also a commemoration ceremony with NU cadres and social service activities.

"Is it in the form of health services and activities related to zakat, infaq, and Nahdlatul Ulama alms in various regions, to emphasize that Nahdlatul Ulama must be present to serve the community, to be together (with) the community to seek common benefit," he concluded.