akarta Governor Anies Baswedan has once again said he has not given permission for the 212 reunion rally, which will be held on Saturday this week, despite an official claiming that he had received a letter from the governor notifying him that the event could go ahead.
The 212 Rally, staged on Dec. 2 last year, was held by conservative Muslim groups to demand the prosecution of then Jakarta governor Basuki “Ahok” Tjahaja Purnama. It is believed to have contributed to Anies' victory in the gubernatorial election in April.
A number of Muslim groups have expressed their desire to hold a rally to celebrate the anniversary.
"That [permit for the 212 reunion rally] is up to the police, not me," Anies said when asked for confirmation at City Hall, as reported by kompas.com on Wednesday.
Previously the same day, Monas technical management unit head, Munjirin, said Anies had given his permission for the rally.
The organizer [of the rally] sent a letter [seeking a permit] to us last week,” he said.
He added that the management unit then forwarded the letter to the Jakarta Tourism Agency.
"From the agency, the letter was sent to the governor and the governor gave his approval today [Wednesday],” he added.
Anies also remains undecided as to whether he will attend the event.
The anniversary rally committee has invited Anies to attend the gathering. (dis)
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