Former President Jokowi conducts political tour in Lampung, sparking debate over ritual and influence

Former President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) visited Pondok Pesantren Nurul Qodiri in Lampung Tengah, thanking the caretakers and saying, "Aku masih seperti yang dulu, masih orang kampung." During the visit he performed a traditional buffalo‑head stepping ritual after receiving honors from five adat kingdoms, which researchers described as part of local custom. Analysts characterize the trip as a "political safari" intended to gauge Jokowi's relevance after leaving office. Hendri Satrio of KedaiKOPI said the tour "shows he still wants to measure and keep his political relevance," while noting his influence remains strong in his former electoral bases such as Lampung. Senior researcher Efriza cautioned that portraying the ritual as a challenge to the ruling PDIP would be counter‑productive for PSI. Economist Didik Rachbini warned that the heightened political competition from the safari could have a negative impact on Indonesia’s economy. The visit has thus sparked discussion over cultural symbolism, political maneuvering, and possible economic consequences.