Effendi Simbolon Falls: From Supporting RK to Being Expelled from PDIP after His Candidate Loses!

Kapanlagi.com - Effendi Simbolon, a figure who has been an icon of PDIP for two decades, is now officially expelled from the party with the bull emblem. This decision marks the end of his political journey in the major party that he has defended since 2004. However, this expulsion did not happen without reason; a series of controversies have colored his career in recent years.

The announcement of his expulsion was officially conveyed by the DPP PDIP through a decree signed by Chairperson Megawati Soekarnoputri and Secretary General Hasto Kristiyanto. In the letter, Effendi was stated to have violated the code of ethics and the party's statutes. Various reactions emerged, with many questioning Effendi's move to support Ridwan Kamil and Prabowo Subianto amidst PDIP's official stance.

So, how did Effendi Simbolon's trail of controversy actually begin? Let's trace the complete chronology!

1. Invitation to Prabowo at the National Working Meeting of the Simbolon Clan

In July 2023, Effendi Simbolon captured public attention by inviting Prabowo Subianto to the National Working Meeting of the Simbolon Clan, a move that clearly contradicts the solid stance of PDIP supporting Ganjar Pranowo as a presidential candidate.

PDIP Secretary General, Hasto Kristiyanto, firmly emphasized the importance of organizational discipline for all party cadres. However, Effendi reasoned that his invitation to Prabowo was based on a deep respect for the Minister of Defense.

During that moment, he also introduced his son to Prabowo, underscoring the close personal relationship that has developed between them.

2. Effendi Simbolon's Statement about Prabowo

Effendi Simbolon not only drew attention with his invitation but also boldly stated in public that Prabowo deserves to lead Indonesia, a statement that immediately triggered a wave of criticism from within PDIP.

The party, which has officially supported Ganjar, considers Effendi's move a serious violation, while Effendi himself asserts that his statement is a personal moral responsibility.

However, this bold action has only worsened relations with the party, creating tensions that are interesting to observe.

3. Support for Ridwan Kamil in the Jakarta Pilkada

In November 2024, Effendi once again captured public attention with his courage to support Ridwan Kamil as a candidate for governor of DKI Jakarta. This action immediately triggered a reaction from PDIP, which is backing the pair of Pramono Anung and Rano Karno, who viewed Effendi's move as an act of defiance.

In this historic moment, he was present at the declaration of support that was also attended by President Jokowi, reaffirming his commitment alongside the Batak Community of Jakarta to support the pair of Ridwan Kamil and Suswono. The atmosphere became even warmer with the spirit of solidarity radiating from the supporters!

4. Public Reaction and Observers' Views

PDIP's decision regarding Effendi's fate sparked various reactions among the public. Some viewed his move as a manifestation of courage to take a different stance, while others saw it as a violation deserving of strict sanctions.

Political observers argue that this dismissal underscores the importance of discipline within the party as the 2024 election year approaches. However, behind this, they also highlight the potential negative impact on the loyalty of other cadres within PDIP.

5. Why was Effendi Simbolon dismissed from PDIP?

Effendi had to face the bitter reality when he was dismissed from his position after being deemed to have violated the party's code of ethics by supporting Ridwan Kamil and Prabowo Subianto. This action clearly contradicts PDIP's official stance and forced him to confront the consequences of his bold yet controversial political choices.

6. What is the impact of Effendi's dismissal on PDIP?

This dismissal is not just a firm step by the party in enforcing discipline, but it also triggers a wave of questions regarding the extent to which the loyalty of other cadres will be tested.

(kpl/frr)