Jokowi attends GBRAN event as group targets nationwide expansion by 2027

JAKARTA, Aug 8 (STUPA) - Former Indonesian President Joko Widodo attended an event held by Gerakan Berani Nusantara (GBRAN), a group that supports him, as the organisation seeks to complete its network across the country down to the sub-district level by February 2027, its chairman said on Saturday.

GBRAN chairman Rimson Maruli Sinaga said the organisation had completed its leadership structure in all 38 provinces and about 75% of districts and municipalities, while around 20% of its sub-district structures were in place.

"We are targeting 100% completion of the DPC leadership structure in February 2027, and the PAC leadership structure should also be 100% complete," Rimson told the group's inauguration event at the Discovery Hotel in Ancol, Jakarta.

Jokowi, who served as president from 2014 to 2024, attended the inauguration of GBRAN's provincial leadership teams from across Indonesia. He currently serves as an adviser to the organisation.

Rimson thanked Jokowi for attending the event despite what he described as the former president's busy schedule.

The GBRAN chairman said representatives from all 38 provinces attended the event and brought regional cultural items. He also said some members from Papua had travelled to Jakarta at their own expense to attend the gathering.

During his speech, Rimson led chants among hundreds of GBRAN members in support of Jokowi and the Prabowo Subianto-Gibran Rakabuming Raka administration.

Prabowo succeeded Jokowi as president in October 2024, while Gibran, Jokowi's eldest son, became vice president after the pair won the 2024 presidential election.

Rimson said GBRAN would continue expanding its organisational network before holding further inaugurations at the district, municipal and sub-district levels.

"Whatever decision you make, we will follow. Wherever you go, we will follow," Rimson told Jokowi, reaffirming the group's loyalty to the former president.

The event was attended by GBRAN members and representatives from its regional branches. (Gusti Haes)