Nahdlatul Ulama readies 2026 Muktamar, debates leadership succession

The 35th Muktamar of Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) is scheduled for late August 2026 in Jombang, Indonesia. The congress will elect the next Ketua Umum of the PBNU, the organization’s top leadership, and chart NU’s role in the nation’s "Indonesia Emas 2045" vision.

Discussion focuses on KH Muhammad Irfan Yusuf (Gus Irfan). KH Zainul Ibad Wijaya (Gus Ulib) clarified that Irfan has not sought the post; support for him stems from grassroots "aspirasi Nahdliyin," not personal ambition. Advocates argue for a leader who embodies the principle "Al‑khuruj minal khilaf" – exiting factional conflict for the greater benefit of the jam’iyyah.

The debate reflects broader contest among four major factions within NU, including incumbent leadership, political figures, and calls for regeneration of leadership free from conflict, as the world’s largest Islamic civil‑society organization seeks to maintain its influence.