Inspired by Jokowi, Petrus Kasihiw's Reasons for Leaving Nasdem and Joining PSI

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - Petrus Kasihiw revealed his reasons for leaving the Nasdem Party and joining the Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI).

The former two-term Regent of Teluk Bintuni stated that he was inspired to join PSI by the achievements of Indonesia's 7th President Joko Widodo (Jokowi), who he considers a role model.

"After considering many factors, particularly admiring Mr. Jokowi as a role model—since he was the president and I was his subordinate as a regent, witnessing the many positive outcomes he has achieved—I was motivated and eager to follow in his footsteps," Petrus said during a statement at the PSI headquarters on Monday (19/10/2026).

Petrus noted that during Jokowi's presidency, he was one of the regional heads under Jokowi's administration.

From this experience, Petrus observed many of Jokowi's positive accomplishments, which fueled his desire to continue that struggle through PSI.

He decided to join PSI after resigning from his position as Head of the West Papua Regional Management Council (DPW) of Nasdem.

Following his integration into PSI, he was entrusted to lead the DPW PSI in West Papua.

"Thank you today, Brother (Ahmad Ali) for entrusting me with this role, and also to our Chairman, as the Head of DPW PSI in West Papua," Petrus continued.

Petrus explained that his decision to join PSI was facilitated by meetings with PSI Daily Chairman Ahmad Ali.

"I have seen his character, I know him because he was previously our leadership. Actually, it was Mr. Bro Ben who played a significant role in bringing me to meet Brother Ahmad Ali at his residence, and ultimately I expressed my commitment to join," he said.