"This was my initiative to clarify my alleged insult of ulema. There was another allegation that as a politician I was hostile to Islam and the Quran," Ahok said at City Hall on Monday.

Ahok reiterated his statement that he never had any intention of committing religious defamation as alleged by several Islamic groups.

Ahok was reported by the organizations for his statement during a visit to Thousands Island regency on Sept. 27 during which he spoke to residents about Surah al-Maidah, verse 51 of the Quran.

In part of his speech, Ahok said, “In your inner hearts, ladies and gentlemen you may feel you cannot vote for me, because [you have been] lied to by [people quoting] Surah al-Maidah, verse 51, etc. […] So, if you cannot vote for me because you are afraid of being condemned to hell you do not need to feel uneasy as you are being fooled. It is alright.”

Ahok said that during the meeting with the police he was told to appoint witnesses who could provide information about the case. "I told them [police investigators] that I have a Muslim brother, who has known me since I was a child. He will explain that I never had any intention to hate Islam or insult any religion," he said. (bbn)

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