Makassar Mayor Munafri Arifuddin joins Democratic Party

Munafri Arifuddin, the Mayor of Makassar, has officially joined the Democratic Party in South Sulawesi after leaving the Golkar Party. The transition was formalized on Thursday, October 8, 2026, during a political education event at the Hotel Claro in Makassar, where he received his membership card from the South Sulawesi Democratic Party Chairman, N'matullah Erbe.

Arifuddin, often referred to as Appi, cited a long history with the Democratic Party, noting that the party supported his previous mayoral campaigns through both wins and losses. He expressed his intention to meet with Democratic Party Chairman Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono to formally integrate into the party's internal structure.

Party officials expressed optimism that his leadership and political experience will strengthen the Democratic Party's base in South Sulawesi, potentially increasing their legislative seats and improving their chances in upcoming regional elections (Pilkada). Regarding speculation about whether he would bring a group of followers from his former party, Arifuddin did not confirm such a move.