he Jakarta Police have requested members of mass organizations taking part in Friday’s “313” rally to not bring up political issues or anything related with the Jakarta gubernatorial election.
“It would be better if they hold joint prayers instead,” Jakarta Police spokesperson Sr. Comr. Argo Yuwono said as quoted by Antara in Jakarta on Wednesday. He asserted that any protesters bringing a political agenda related with the Jakarta gubernatorial election during the rally would face consequences.
Argo said the police had received a notification from Muslim People’s Forum (FUI) on their plan to hold a rally on Friday.
The FUI leaders sent a notification letter to the National Police, who later forwarded it to the Jakarta Police, he went on.
The 313 rally is a follow up of two previous rallies, on Nov. 4 and Dec. 2, conducted by Islamic organizations to protest blasphemy allegedly committed by Jakarta Governor Basuki “Ahok” Tjahaja Purnama.
Argo said the Jakarta Police were ready to secure Friday’s mass rally. The police would anticipate any disruptive behavior by preparing a security system that prioritized a persuasive approach.
FUI leaders conveyed in a previous statement their plan to stage a rally to call for Ahok’s dismissal by carrying out a mass Friday prayer and a joint dzikr event. (rdi/ebf)
Your thoughts matter - share your experiences, suggestions, and any issues you've encountered on The Jakarta Post. We're here to listen.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts. We appreciate your feedback.