Nahdlatul Ulama concludes 35th Muktamar with new leadership

The 35th Muktamar of Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) has concluded at the Bahrul Ulum Islamic Boarding School in Jombang, East Java. The assembly resulted in the appointment of KH Miftachul Akhyar as Rais Aam and Gus Kikin as the General Chairperson of PBNU for the 2026-2031 term.

The selection of the Rais Aam was conducted through the Ahlul Halli wal Aqdi (AHWA) mechanism, involving a council of nine scholars. Supporters of this process, such as Chalid Tualeka, noted that the indirect election method aligns with NU’s identity as an organization of scholars, where ultimate authority rests with the ulama.

Reflecting on the event, local religious figures emphasized that the essence of NU extends beyond formal administrative offices and official meetings. They noted that the organization lives through grassroots traditions, such as local prayer groups, religious gatherings, and the daily service of village-level clerics.