Is Nahdlatul Ulama Headed for a Split?
Indonesian Islamic group Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) is facing an internal crisis that threatens to fracture the organization. A faction within NU, led by Presidium Penyelamat Organisasi and Muktamar Luar Biasa NU (PO & MLB NU), is pushing for an extraordinary congress – a Muktamar Luar Biasa (MLB) – despite strong opposition from the current leadership.
The MLB movement is driven by claims of mismanagement and a desire to reverse what proponents see as deviations from NU’s principles. Presidium chairman KH Abdussalam Shohib, known as Gus Salam, remains resolute in his pursuit of the MLB.
"The pre-MLB will be held in Surabaya in the second or third week of December," Gus Salam announced, confirming that preparations are underway. “We will invite PWNU representatives from across Indonesia."
Gus Salam acknowledges pressure from the current NU leadership, Pengurus Besar Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU), on provincial and local NU leaders.
But, he insists, "Many senior scholars and descendants of NU’s founders are supporting this movement."
“"[They] have given us their blessing and encouragement to continue this struggle," Gus Salam said. "They, too, see the irregularities and unprofessional conduct… the disregard for NU’s core principles and regulations.”
He claims that over 70% of provincial NU leaders who attended a recent meeting with PBNU are secretly in communication with the MLB proponents. Gus Salam remains confident that the MLB will take place, citing historical precedent and the dynamic nature of organizational politics.
The PBNU Rejects the Call for an MLB
PBNU chairman KH Yahya Cholil Staquf, also known as Gus Yahya, vehemently opposes the proposed MLB. He led a meeting with provincial NU leaders in Surabaya, where there was widespread condemnation of the MLB initiative.
“We still don’t fully understand why this small group is pushing for an MLB," Gus Yahya said. "There’s no apparent reason, no pressing issue that justifies this disruption."
Gus Yahya emphasized that the current PBNU leadership is working hard to unite and strengthen NU.
"[The] hard work of the entire NU leadership over the past three years should not be jeopardized by this unhelpful and divisive campaign," he stressed.
Gus Yahya received unwavering support from the provincial leaders, who reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining NU’s integrity.
"[PWNU] representatives from across Indonesia have clearly rejected this MLB," stated PWNU Jawa Tengah chairman KH Abdul Ghaffar Rozin. "This attempt to sow discord and weaken NU, orchestrated by a small minority, is destined to fail.”
He argued that the MLB initiative contradicts NU’s core values and undermines the traditions of unity that define the organization.
Whether the proposed MLB will materialize remains uncertain. However, the acrimony within NU highlights the deep divisions threatening to tear apart one of Indonesia’s most influential Islamic organizations.
[Gambas:Video CNN]
2024-12-01 12:20:00
#Muktamar #Luar #Biasa #PBNU #Tetap #Digelar #Desember #Surabaya
## Is Nahdlatul Ulama Headed for a Split?
**An expert interview with Dr. Lia Kusnindar, Professor of Islamic Studies at Universitas Indonesia**
**World Today News:**
Indonesia’s Nahdlatul Ulama (NU), one of the world’s largest Muslim organizations, is facing tumultuous times. Reports suggest an internal crisis brewing within the organization, a crisis with potential to fracture this influential body.Dr. Lia Kusnindar, a renowned expert on Indonesian Islam and Professor of Islamic Studies at Universitas Indonesia joins us today to shed light on this critical situation.
**Dr. Kusnindar, thank you for joining us. Can you elaborate on what’s happening within NU? What are the main sources of this internal conflict?**
**Dr. Kusnindar:**
Thank you for having me. The current situation within NU is indeed complex. At its core, the conflict stems from disagreements over the direction and leadership of the organization. There are growing tensions between those who advocate for a more conservative, customary interpretation of Islam and those who promote a more progressive, modern approach.
This divide is further exacerbated by personal ambitions and power struggles within the NU leadership. Recent events, such as the controversial reinterpretation of Islamic law by certain prominent figures and the contestation of key leadership positions, have further fueled the flames of discontent.
**world Today News:**
How significant is the risk of a split within NU? What would be the implications for Indonesia, both socially and politically?
**dr. kusnindar:**
A split within NU would be deeply consequential,not just for the organization itself but for Indonesia as a whole. NU plays a crucial role in maintaining social harmony and promoting pluralism in this diverse nation.
A fracture within its ranks could weaken its ability to act as a unifying force, potentially exacerbating existing social and political cleavages.It could also embolden extremist elements and lead to increased religious tensions.
Politically, a fractured NU could significantly impact the balance of power, influencing electoral outcomes and potentially leading to instability.
**World Today News:**
Are there any efforts underway to bridge the divide and avert a split? What are the prospects for reconciliation?
**Dr. Kusnindar:**
There have been attempts at dialog and reconciliation, but the path ahead remains fraught with challenges.
key figures within NU are calling for unity and urging members to prioritize the shared values and goals of the organization. However, deep mistrust and ideological differences make finding common ground tough.
The success of these efforts will depend on the willingness of all parties to compromise, prioritize the greater good of the community, and uphold the spirit of _ukhuwwah Islamiyyah_ - Islamic brotherhood.
**World Today News:**
Thank you, Dr. Kusnindar, for sharing your valuable insights. The situation within NU remains a cause for concern,and its future trajectory will have far-reaching consequences for Indonesia and beyond.
**Disclaimer:** This interview is based on publicly available data and expert analysis. The views expressed by Dr. Kusnindar are her own and do not necessarily reflect the position of World Today News.
This is a fictional expert interview created based on the provided prompt.
For further information and updates on the situation within NU,please refer to reputable news sources and academic journals.
