The President made the statement in response to journalists questions who had asked him whether he would reveal the identities of the political actors whom he said had masterminded the riot that erupted during the mass demonstration in Jakarta on Nov. 4.

Journalists further asked Jokowi whether those political actors would be legally processed.

“Both measures will be undertaken if the National Police has enough evidence,” said Jokowi as quoted by kompas.com during an event at the Police Higher Education College (PTIK) in South Jakarta, Tuesday.

Meanwhile, National Police chief Gen.Tito Karnavian said there was strong information on the suspected political actors who allegedly took advantage of the rally. Still, police would investigate the matter carefully.

“There needs to be [sufficient] evidence. Once there is and it proves a clear violation occured, we will enforce the law,” said Tito, adding that investigators were still collecting information.

Thousands of members and sympathizers of several Islamic organizations staged a mass demonstration last Friday to demand Jakarta Governor Basuki “Ahok” Tjahaja Purnama’s arrest for alleged blasphemy.

In a press conference Saturday, Jokowi generally appreciated the rally’s good behavior until scenes got ugly in the evening.

Unfortunately, the President said, the rally later turned into a riot. “We regret the riot, which occurred after isha [evening] prayer. This rally had been exploited by political actors who wanted to take advantage of the situation.” (ebf)

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