Indonesia: 200,000 Muslims demand arrest of Christian governor for blasphemy
December 02, 2016
An estimated 200,000 Muslims participated in a massive demonstration in Jakarta on December 2, calling for the immediate arrest of a Christian governor who has been charged with blasphemy against Islam.
Basuki Purnama Tjahaja, popularly known as “Ahok,” faces criminal charges for quoting a passage from the Qu’ran, warning against acceptance of leadership by non-Muslims, and asking Islamic leaders not to use the passage against him. The December 2 demonstration was the second mass protest against him.
President Joko Widodo, who has supported Ahok in the past, joined the demonstrators for Friday prayers, then asked the crowd to disperse peacefully. The protest ended without incident.
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Further information:
- At least 200,000 Indonesians call for arrest of Christian governor (AP)
- Indonesia: Christian governor to face trial for blasphemy (CWN, 11/16)
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