Why Hanafi Rais Decide to Step Down from PAN and DPR?

Hanafi Rais declared his resignation from the National Mandate Party (PAN) and his position as Chairman of the PAN Faction in the House of Representatives (DPR). He announced it through a stamped letter circulating among journalists and on social media. Hanafi, the son of Amien Rais, saw that PAN tends to compromise with the current government, as the holder of power, even though it was preceded by criticism. In contrast, many cadres and sympathizers hope that PAN becomes the antithesis of the holder of power.

After holding a chaotic congress in February, Hanafi assessed that PAN had failed to utilize the momentum to improve its stance and organization. "Therefore, with this letter, I declare my resignation from PAN central executive board 2020-2025 and my position as Chairman of the PAN Faction in DPR and member of DPR from the PAN Faction 2019-2024," Hanafi wrote in a letter circulating among journalists on Tuesday (5/5).