Jakarta. An executive from the National Democratic Party (Nasdem) expressed support on Monday for President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo's initiative to bridge differences among political parties following the general elections.

Nasdem had distanced itself from the coalition of pro-government parties since October 2022 when it nominated Anies Baswedan, widely perceived as an opposition figure, as its presidential nominee.

Anies has openly called for reform in the governance system and delivered anti-establishment rhetoric. 

Signs of reconciliation emerged on Sunday when Nasdem Chairman Surya Paloh had a private meeting and dinner with the president at the State Palace, following the presidential election that indicated an outright win for Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto.

When asked by reporters about the meeting a day later, the president said he and Surya discussed political issues and added he wanted to "become the bridge" for everyone.

"I appreciate the president’s intention to become the bridge for all parties. It’s our hope that the president plays a leadership role and reaches across the aisle,” Nasdem’s chief treasurer, Ahmad Sahroni, told reporters in Jakarta.

"The elections are over, and we are awaiting official results from the KPU [General Election Commission], so it’s time to return to the unitary state of Indonesia,” he added.

The meeting between Surya and Jokowi on Sunday fueled speculation about Nasdem's return to the government coalition. The prospective presidential election winner received the backing of the president, whose son becomes Prabowo’s running mate.

Prabowo is also supported by four incumbent parties, which could form an absolute majority in the House of Representatives if Nasdem rejoins the pro-government coalition.

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