Jakarta – President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) has ordered the security forces to stay alert and work professionally to anticipate a protest rally to be staged on November 4, 2016.
After attending the commemoration of World Saving Day 2016, at the Jakarta Convention Center here on Monday, Jokowi said that demonstration is a democratic right of citizens, but they do not have the right to impose their will or create damages.
A number of Islamic organizations have planned to stage a big rally on November 4 against Jakarta Governor Basuki Tjahaja Purnama (Ahok) who they accused of blasphemy and insulting the Koran.
Jokowi said the government would guarantee the right to free speech, but it would also give priority to public order and security.
“I have ordered the security forces to stay alert and perform their duties in a professional manner to overcome any anarchy perpetrated by any one,” the president remarked.
Earlier on Sunday, National Police Chief General Tito Karnavian urged the people not to be easily provoked with regard to the Islamic mass organizations planned demonstration.
Karnavian explained that the rally could be exploited by certain elements for political purposes ahead of the Jakarta gubernatorial election next February.
“Do not be easily provoked or involve in violence. Please do not be anarchic,” he said, expressing hope that the demonstrators would carry out the rally peacefully.
ANTARA NEWS
