Home Affairs Minister Praises Police, Military Chiefs for Peaceful Dec. 2 Rally
Jakarta. Home Affairs Minister Tjahjo Kumolo has praised the National Police and the Indonesian Military for their efforts to ensure a peaceful rally in the capital on Friday (02/12).
Tens of thousands of Muslims gathered for Friday prayers at the National Monument (Monas) complex in Central Jakarta as part of a mass protest to demand the jailing of Jakarta Governor Basuki "Ahok" Tjahaja Purnama, who is accused of having committed blasphemy.
"We have full appreciation for National Police chief Gen. Tito Karnavian and Military chief Gen. Gatot Nurmantyo for having successfully completed the assignment from Mr. President to secure the peace rally," Tjahjo said.
"The large-scale mass prayer, which proceeded in a disciplined manner and without incident, was the result of the extraordinary performance by the police and military chiefs," he added.
Commenting on President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo's surprise attendance of the prayer, Tjahjo said the president has always listened to the public's aspirations.
"He is spontaneous. When he saw this massive gathering of Indonesians, he [decided] to attend," the minister said.
Tjahjo also praised the ulemas, clerics and preachers for leading a peaceful rally.
"We also have appreciation for the religious figures who have successfully mobilized their followers to come to Jakarta," he told the media at his office.
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