Jakarta. Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has garnered unanimous backing from delegates of all regional chapters of the Golkar Party to become its next chairman during the party's national congress on Tuesday evening, a senior party official said.

Bahlil is expected to be formally appointed as chairman by acclamation on the second day of the congress, according to Golkar Party Deputy Chairman Adies Kardi, who chaired the plenary session.

The congress was convened following the unexpected resignation of current chairman Airlangga Hartarto, despite Golkar’s strong electoral performance under his leadership and his earlier promise to seek another term.

“All provincial and district chapters have pledged their support for Mr. Bahlil Lahadalia to lead the party from 2024 to 2029,” Adies announced at the Jakarta Convention Center.

During the session, acting chairman Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita praised Airlangga’s leadership, crediting him with helping Golkar secure its position as the second-largest party in the House of Representatives.

"Let's take a moment to recognize Mr. Airlangga Hartarto," Agus said. "Under his leadership, Golkar won 102 seats in the House, garnered 23.2 million votes, secured 359 seats in provincial legislatures, and 2,521 seats in district legislatures."

Airlangga has yet to provide a detailed explanation for his sudden resignation, only mentioning his desire to focus on his responsibilities as the coordinating minister for economic affairs.

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