KH Enci Zarkasih: NU Needs a Figure Like KH Marsudi Syuhud

KH Enci Zarkasih: NU Needs a Figure Like KH Marsudi Syuhud

The reshuffle of the Nahdlatul Ulama Central Board (PBNU) leadership at the 35th Congress (Muktamar) in 2026 is intended to restore the major Indonesian Islamic organization to its function as an engine for social change, a guardian of the nation's morals, and a critical-strategic partner to the administration of Prabowo Subianto.

This was stated by Dr KH Enci Zarkasih, Chairman of the Executive Council (Tanfidziyah) of the Pandeglang Regency NU Branch Council (PCNU) for the 2024–2029 term, ahead of the 35th NU Congress at the Bahrul Ulum Islamic Boarding School, Tambakberas, Jombang, East Java, scheduled for August 27–31, 2026.

According to KH Enci Zarkasih, the Prabowo Subianto administration aspires to realize grand ideas within the "Paradox of Indonesia" and its asta cita (eight primary goals), which align with NU's core spirit—including the strengthening of the Pancasila ideology, democracy, and human rights.

"In this regard, Islam—and NU in particular—provides a solid foundation for the Pancasila ideology, as well as legitimacy for democracy and human rights. NU has proven itself to be steadfast (istiqamah) in upholding the teachings of Islam that support these principles," explained KH Enci Zarkasih.

He believes that overall, the asta cita of Prabowo Subianto's administration aligns with what NU administrators at all levels have been striving for. The key now is how NU takes on an essential role in guiding the current government.

"The outcome of the Congress is the answer. To fulfill the vision of NU's founders and its active cadres who contribute to national development, the key lies in establishing good, high-quality, and solid NU leadership across all levels," he clarified.

KH Enci Zarkasih stated that as the largest Islamic organization in Indonesia, NU is not just an ordinary organization. It serves as a social, economic, and cultural-political force whose influence significantly shapes national politics and government policy directions. Furthermore, NU acts as a moral compass for the nation, holding immense moral and spiritual legitimacy in the eyes of the public.

He added that the Prabowo Subianto administration requires NU's support and cooperation to maintain social stability and build a collective awareness among Muslims regarding national and state values—especially as the administration strongly focuses on national self-reliance.

"This is evident, for instance, in the architecture of the 2026 State Budget (APBN) designed by President Prabowo to foster a resilient, independent, and prosperous Indonesia, focusing on strengthening national security in food, energy, the economy, and defense," he detailed.

However, he did not deny that in an increasingly pragmatic political era, NU faces significant challenges in maintaining its independence amid the strong pull of various political and economic interests. Many figures within the organization have been tempted to take political sides or even engage directly in political contests.

As a result, the mission of da'wah (preaching) and nurturing the community risks being sidelined. In reality, NU's strength lies in its moral independence, allowing it to act as a balancing force that corrects the government when errors occur and supports policies that genuinely benefit the public interest.

"This is what needs to be rectified. NU must return to its sacred role as a moral force guiding the nation toward prosperity and justice. NU is not an instrument of power; it is a guardian of values, ethics, and integrity in national life. Leaders who succumb to political interests—or use the organization's influence for political gain—must return to NU's original foundation (khitthah)," he asserted.

Therefore, he emphasized that PBNU needs future leaders who possess not only deep religious knowledge and a strong grasp of ummatan wasathan (a balanced/moderate community), but also a national political vision compatible with the ideals of a free, united, sovereign, just, and prosperous nation, alongside an understanding of geopolitical and geoeconomic dynamics.

In short, the new PBNU leadership must help guide the nation alongside the Prabowo Subianto administration as it navigates complex challenges, such as globalized values, moral crises, digital disruption, and international competition that is becoming increasingly exploitational rather than merely competitive. The General Chairman of PBNU must serve as a golden bridge between the Muslim community and the government.

Touching upon the candidate for the next PBNU General Chairman, KH Enci Zarkasih suggested several points. First, the PBNU General Chairman candidate must meet several criteria: first, capable as a bridge and guarantor, ensuring that every government policy is imbued with religious values such as justice, honesty, and togetherness.
In this way, state policies do not lose their moral dimension and remain committed to achieving the public good.

"Second, the PBNU General Chairman candidate must be a skilled mediator who maintains harmony between the community and the government. He must be able to convey public aspirations to the government, while effectively explaining state policies to the people to achieve mutual understanding and build support," he explained.

Third, the candidate must consistently be a productive and critical partner to the government. He must offer input, perspectives, and alternative policy options from a community-focused perspective. Thus, state policies will always be rooted in moral values.

"If asked who fits these criteria, my answer is Dr. KH Marsudi Syuhud. He has extensive experience within PBNU, having served as Vice General Chairman and as Secretary General of PBNU for nine years alongside Chairman Prof. Dr. KH Said Aqil Siraj," he noted.

Additionally, he continued, KH Marsudi Syuhud has broad experience in international economics, interfaith cooperation, conflict resolution, and global peacebuilding efforts. "He has spoken at numerous international forums in these fields," he added.

KH Marsudi is also regarded as a figure capable of bringing conflicting parties together. He is very flexible, egalitarian, and deeply rooted in pesantren culture. Guided by the motto Khodimul Ulama (servant of the scholars), KH Marsudi Syuhud dedicates his time, energy, and mind to preserving NU as a legacy of the scholars through PBNU, ensuring it continues to benefit the nation and the state.

He expressed hope that KH Marsudi Syuhud's attention to NU cadres, particularly Generation Z, will cultivate high-quality cadres through various innovative programs during his upcoming 2026–2031 leadership term.

"His extensive experience in economic networks positions KH Marsudi Syuhud to refine and develop the management of BUMNU for the organization's future financial independence. Dr KH Marsudi Syuhud's long-standing background in soft power diplomacy will also enable him to elevate NU as the world's largest Islamic organization," he concluded.***