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PDI-P ready to defend Megawati over defamation accusation
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Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P) chairwoman Megawati Soekarnoputri delivers a speech prior the performance of Tripikala: Tertawa bersama Ibu Mega (07 tahun). (JP/Ni Nyoman Wira)
T
he ruling Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P) has deployed a team of lawyers to defend its chairperson, Megawati Soekarnoputri, against allegations of defamation.
PDI-P executive member Andreas Pareira said Tuesday that the party was ready to support Megawati in facing groups accusing the former president of making derogatory remarks against the leaders of certain Islamic groups.
“I don’t see any rational reasons to file a report [against Megawati to the police],” Andreas said on the sidelines of a meeting at the House of Representatives, adding that a team of lawyers had nevertheless been prepared to defend Megawati.
(Read also: FPI threatens to report Megawati to police for blasphemy)
Alliance of Citizen Movements Against Religious Defamation (Aliansi Anak Bangsa Gerakan Anti Penodaan Agama) spokesman Baharuzaman on Monday reported the daughter of the first Indonesian president, Sukarno, over her speech during PDI-P’s birthday celebration on Jan. 10.
“But we don't take it seriously to deal with this issue. I think those who filed the report did not fully understand the content of the speech," Andreas asserted. According to police, Megawati stands accused of insulting Islam by criticizing religious leaders as having a narrow mindset.
“He [Baharuzaman] said he thinks the remarks were insulting. That is why he filed the report to us,” National Police spokesperson Brig. Gen. Rikwanto said. (dan)
