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Istiqlal grand imam calls on Ahok protesters to remain calm
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All set: Protesters gather at the Istiqlal Grand Mosque in Central Jakarta ready to join a large-scale rally on Friday to demand the criminal prosecution of gubernatorial candidate and incumbent Jakarta Governor Basuki “Ahok” Thahaja Purnama on allegations of blasphemy. (JP/Prima Wirayani)
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stiqlal Mosque grand imam Nasaruddin Umar has called on Muslims not to be excessive in venting their frustrations toward those perceived to have insulted the Quran.
Nasaruddin delivered his Friday prayer sermon before tens of thousands of protesters who planned a rally demanding the prosecution of Jakarta Governor Basuki “Ahok” Tjahaja Purnama for alleged blasphemy.
The mosque, flocked by at least 10,000 people, was the starting point for the protesters before the main rally in front of the Presidential Palace.
Nasaruddin has attempted to calm the emotions of the rally participants who had largely incited hatred into the crowds and hoisted banners demanding the killing of Ahok before the start of the prayer.
"It is understandable for Muslims to feel offended if someone insults the Quran. But in expressing the anger, the Quran has clearly stated that it should not be done by crossing the line or in excessive ways," said Nasaruddin, the founder of an Indonesian interfaith organization and former religious affairs deputy minister.
(Read also: Bogor residents take part in anti-Ahok rally)
He also stated that a legitimate government should be nurtured at all costs as it is the prerequisite for the propagation of Islam and its teachings.
Ahok, a close friend of President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo, previously apologized for causing uproar among Muslim groups and communities after he was accused of insulting verses in the Quran on Sept. 27 during his visit to the Thousand Islands regency.
