The figure of Effendy Simbolon, the PDIP politician who was expelled from PDIP after supporting Ridwan Kamil in the Jakarta Pilkada

Kapanlagi.com - Effendi Muara Sakti Simbolon has once again captured public attention after an official letter from the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) circulated, announcing his dismissal. The letter, signed by PDIP Chairperson Megawati Soekarnoputri and PDIP Secretary-General Hasto Kristiyanto, is dated November 28, 2024, and originates from Jakarta.

This dismissal is a direct consequence of Effendi's decision to support the Ridwan Kamil-Suswono pair in the 2024 Jakarta gubernatorial election. This action clearly contradicts the official decision of PDIP, which endorses the Pramono Anung-Rano Karno pair. This decision sparked a wave of controversy that ultimately led to Effendi's expulsion from the party.

The announcement of this dismissal was made by the Chair of the PDIP DPP, Djarot Saiful Hidayat, on Saturday, November 30, 2024. As a senior politician who has served four terms in the DPR, Effendi has a lengthy track record in the political arena. To learn more about him, check out the complete profile of Effendi Simbolon on Sunday, December 1.

1. Effendi Simbolon's Support for Ridwan Kamil

Effendi appeared striking as he accompanied President Joko Widodo in the campaign of the Ridwan Kamil-Suswono pair in Cempaka Putih, Jakarta, a move that immediately triggered a wave of sharp criticism considering that PDIP had officially supported the Pramono Anung-Rano Karno pair.

Wearing a black shirt, Effendi seemed to announce his support without hesitation for Ridwan Kamil, reinforcing speculation that he is now stepping on a different path from his party's political direction. This bold decision raises significant questions about his loyalty and future in PDIP.

2. Effendi Simbolon's Political Career

Effendi, an experienced figure in the political world, began his career journey in the DPR in 2004, representing the DKI Jakarta electoral district. He has served as the Deputy Chairman of Commission VII, focusing on energy and environmental issues, and has also been active in Commission I, which discusses defense and international relations.

As a senior figure in the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP), his name was once proposed for the position of Secretary General of PDIP for the 2010-2015 period. However, his support for Ridwan Kamil is considered a violation of party loyalty, marking an interesting dynamic in his political journey.

3. Dismissal from PDIP

The Chairman of the DPP PDIP, Djarot Saiful Hidayat, revealed that the dismissal of Effendi is a firm step against violations of the party's code of ethics that cannot be tolerated. The Decree of dismissal signed by Megawati Soekarnoputri and Hasto Kristiyanto on November 28, 2024, reflects PDIP's commitment to the Statutes and Bylaws (AD/ART) that must be adhered to.

In this case, Effendi is deemed to have violated the principles of loyalty and compliance that form the foundation of the party's policies, emphasizing that every member must uphold high integrity and discipline.

4. Effendi's Track Record and Education

Effendi Simbolon, born in Banjarmasin on December 1, 1964, is a figure who combines academic intelligence with a spirit of dedication. After completing his bachelor's degree in Management at Jayabaya University, he continued his intellectual journey by obtaining a doctorate in International Relations from Padjadjaran University.

However, his involvement did not stop in the academic world; Effendi is also actively contributing to various organizations, such as PB Lemkari and the Central Organization of Simbolon Dohot Boruna throughout Indonesia (PSBI), reflecting his deep commitment to the Batak community and his enthusiasm for advancing his community.

5. Ridwan Kamil's Response and Public Reaction

Ridwan Kamil welcomed Effendi's support enthusiastically, considering it a step in line with the spirit of democracy. However, behind that positive spotlight, the public couldn't contain their curiosity about Effendi's true motives, especially regarding the internal dynamics of PDIP.

In the realm of social media, this support sparked a wave of intense debate; some appreciated his initiative, while others launched sharp criticisms, accusing him of betrayal against the party.

6. Why was Effendi Simbolon expelled from PDIP?

Effendi is now in the spotlight after being declared to have violated the party's code of ethics as well as the Statutes and Bylaws (AD/ART) of PDIP, due to his support for a candidate pair that was not in line with the party's official choice. This decision raised significant questions among party cadres and political observers, given that loyalty to the party is one of the main pillars in the political world.

7. What is the impact of Effendi's support for Ridwan Kamil?

The support given by Effendi to Ridwan Kamil has successfully drawn public attention to the candidate's campaign, but behind all that, there are tremors shaking the internal PDIP, creating inevitable tension among the party's management.

8. Will Effendi Simbolon join another party?

Until now, Effendi's political steps after his dismissal remain a mystery, with no official confirmation revealing his next plans. The public is curious, waiting to see whether he will continue to be active in politics or choose a different path.

(kpl/frr)