Jakarta, IndonesiaSenitnel.com — Abdullah Latopada, the Chairman of Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU), has firmly rejected rumors regarding the involvement of local branches in the upcoming Muktamar Luar Biasa (MLB) NU. Latopada stated that the MLB NU, which is rumored to be held in the coming months, is merely an issue propagated by a few individuals lacking legitimate authority within PBNU.
“I assure you, no branch or regional officials are involved. This is just gossip spread by a handful of idle individuals,” Latopada said in a statement to Antara on Sunday, September 15, 2024.
Latopada emphasized that the PBNU’s organizational structure remains solid and robust throughout its levels. He refuted claims suggesting support from branch and regional organizations, calling them misinformation. “There is no internal power struggle within NU,” he added.
Conversely, the MLB NU presidium claims widespread support from hundreds of branch leaders and special representatives. KH Abdussalam Shohib (Gus Salam), Secretary of the MLB NU Steering Committee, confirmed that 326 branch organizations (PCNU), 23 regional organizations (PWNU), and several international branches have pledged their support for the MLB NU event, set to be held in Cirebon.
“This event is expected to attract thousands of kiais from various regions. Despite objections from PCNU, GP Ansor, Banser, and Pagar Nusa in the Cirebon area, we urge them to fulfill their host duties and welcome the guests and kiais,” Gus Salam stated in Cirebon on Sunday (September 15, 2024).
Gus Salam also revealed that a preliminary meeting, or pramuktamar, will take place in late September or early October 2024. The outcome of this meeting will determine the official schedule for MLB NU, which Gus Salam hopes will occur within the year. He affirmed that the MLB NU is an official forum protected by the organization’s constitution, making it impervious to dissolution.
To ensure participant comfort, the organizers have arranged accommodations across several hotels and four pesantren (Islamic boarding schools) in Cirebon. Gus Salam stressed that local PCNU, GP Ansor, Banser, and Pagar Nusa have a responsibility to serve the kiais and guests.
Additionally, Gus Salam has opened a complaint channel for NU members and the public to report any issues or concerns regarding PBNU. Reports can be submitted via phone at +6287839539999, email at aduanmlbnu@gmail.com, or in person at the Presidium Secretariat in Jombang, East Java.
He also noted that the MLB NU will not require special security beyond standard police protection. Gus Salam invited all parties to engage in open dialogue and resolve disputes peacefully, following the example set by Gus Dur during the New Order era.
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“We hope that Ansor, Banser, and Pagar Nusa will act maturely and wisely. Their role is to serve the ulama without bias,” Gus Salam concluded, emphasizing the commitment to upholding the organization’s values and integrity.
(Ray)
