Under heavy guard by presidential detail and police personnel, Jokowi and Kalla walked to Monas. Coordinating Political, Legal and Security Affairs Minister Wiranto and Religious Affairs Minister Lukman Hakim Saefuddin accompanied them.

The Friday prayers featured a sermon by Islam Defenders Front (FPI) chairman Rizieq Shihab, who appeared to urge protesters to hold a peaceful rally.

After the prayers, Jokowi ascended to the podium and delivered a short speech to thank clerics and protesters for rallying peacefully.

“Thank you for your prayers for the safety of the country. I appreciate everyone who has come and maintained order, so that the event can run well,” he said. (dmr)

President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo, accompanied by Vice President Jusuf Kalla and top security officers, braves heavy rain at the National Monument to join Friday prayers with thousands of protesters on Dec. 2. (Presidential Press Office /File)

President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo (right) jokes with Vice President Jusuf Kalla (left) in heavy rain as they head to meet protesters at the National Monument Park on Dec. 2. (Presidential Press Office /File)

President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo is welcomed by clerics prior to Friday prayers with protesters at the National Monument Park on Dec. 2. (Presidential Press Office /File)

President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo (third right) joins Friday prayers along with Vice President Jusuf Kalla (second right), Coordinating Political, Legal and Security Affairs Minister Wiranto (left), Religious Affairs Minister Lukman Hakim Saefuddin (right) and others at the National Monument Park on Dec. 2. (Presidential Press Office /File)

President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo ascends to the stage to address protesters at the National Monument Park on Dec. 2. (Presidential Press Office /File)

President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo greets protesters as Coordinating Political, Legal and Security Affairs Minister Wiranto looks on after a Friday prayer gathering at the National Monument Park on Dec. 2. Jokowi thanked clerics and protesters for keeping the peace during a rally. (Presidential Press Office /File)