Profile of Effendi Simbolon, Former PDIP Cadre Who Asked Megawati to Step Down from Her Position

Kapanlagi.com - The name Effendi Simbolon has once again captured public attention with a shocking statement. This former cadre of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) boldly asked Megawati Soekarnoputri to step down from her position as chairperson. This brave action comes amid intense scrutiny over a legal case involving Hasto Kristiyanto, the Secretary-General of PDIP.

Effendi referred to this scandal as a 'major disaster' that has undermined public trust in the bull-emblazoned party. He emphasized that it is time for PDIP to undergo a comprehensive renewal, including at the highest leadership level. This statement has triggered various reactions from different circles, both within the party and from political observers.

"This is a very significant disaster for a party that I have followed for a long time. There has never been a situation of this magnitude before," he stated firmly.

So, who exactly is Effendi Simbolon? Check out the complete review of his profile, career journey, and the controversial statement that is now a hot topic in society.

1. Background of Effendi Simbolon

Effendi Simbolon, who was born in Banjarmasin on December 1, 1964, is an interesting figure in Indonesian politics. The son of Martha br. Tobing and M.M. Simbolon has built a harmonious personal life by marrying Dessy Trinita br. Tobing and is blessed with three children.

His political career began with a bold step by joining PDIP, and in 2004, he successfully won a seat in the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI) for the first time. Since then, Effendi has continued to rise, being elected as a member of the DPR for four consecutive terms, while also serving as the Deputy Chairman of Commission VII, which deals with vital issues of energy and the environment.

However, behind his success, there are twists and turns in his journey that have not always been smooth, including his dismissal from PDIP after he took the controversial step of supporting candidates outside the party line during the Jakarta gubernatorial election.

2. Dismissal from PDIP

On November 30, 2024, Djarot Saiful Hidayat announced a shocking decision from PDIP to dismiss Effendi Simbolon, a senior cadre who has been a pillar of the party. This dismissal is clearly a severe blow to Effendi, who has long been known as an influential voice within the party.

Djarot explained that Effendi's support for the Ridwan Kamil-Suswono pair in the Jakarta 2024 gubernatorial election was seen as going against the party's policy direction.

However, despite being ousted, Effendi does not want to give up; he continues to boldly voice his opinions on internal PDIP issues, showing that his fighting spirit will not easily fade away.

3. Criticism of Megawati's Leadership

Shocking statements came from Effendi, who called for Megawati to step down from her position as chairperson of PDIP, a move he considers crucial following the legal case involving Hasto Kristiyanto.

In a press conference at the Office of the Coordinating Ministry for Infrastructure and Regional Development of the Republic of Indonesia on Wednesday (1/8), Effendi emphasized, "She must resign as a form of accountability; this is not just an ethical issue, but a serious legal matter."

He stressed that this situation should be the responsibility of the entire leadership, including the chairperson, and called for a comprehensive renewal within PDIP to restore public trust.

"It is time for everything to be renewed, even the chairperson must participate in this process," asserted Effendi, indicating that a total change is very much needed.

4. Wealth of Effendi Simbolon

In the latest LHKPN report, it was revealed that Effendi Simbolon's wealth soared to Rp152 billion in 2023, with most of it coming from land and building assets amounting to Rp135 billion.

This politician owns a variety of impressive properties in South Jakarta and North Tapanuli, including a luxurious house in a prominent elite area. Not only that, but his stylish car collection, such as the Toyota Alphard and Mitsubishi Pajero, further emphasizes his status as one of the financially successful politicians.

Interestingly, Effendi has no debts, reflecting excellent financial management. These facts add an intriguing layer to his persona, known not only as a loud voice in the political arena but also as an influential and classy figure.

5. Reactions to the Hasto Kristiyanto Case

The legal case involving Hasto Kristiyanto has triggered a wave of sharp criticism from Effendi, who highlights the leadership of PDIP under public scrutiny.

Hasto is entangled in two major scandals: bribery related to the establishment of PAW members of the DPR and obstruction of justice concerning the Harun Masiku case, which Effendi deems a serious stain on PDIP's reputation as one of the leading parties in Indonesia.

He emphasizes that it is time for the party to reflect and improve itself in order to maintain integrity in the eyes of the public.

"This is a great disaster for the party I have long followed; there has never been a situation as crucial as this," he asserted, indicating how important this moment is for PDIP to reform.

6. Who is Effendi Simbolon?

Effendi Simbolon is a former PDIP cadre who has served as a member of the DPR for four terms.

7. Why was Effendi Simbolon expelled from PDIP?

Effendi must relinquish his position after showing support for a candidate pair that contradicts the party's policies in the 2024 Jakarta gubernatorial election, a step that triggered a firm decision from his party.

8. What is the reason Effendi asked Megawati to step down?

Effendi emphasized that the legal issues faced by Hasto Kristiyanto signal a strong urgency for comprehensive reform within PDIP.

9. What is Effendi Simbolon's wealth?

According to LHKPN reports, Effendi Simbolon has impressive wealth, amounting to Rp152 billion, with the majority of his assets coming from property he owns.

(kpl/rmt)