Bogor, W Java (ANTARA News) - The Indonesian Muslim Intellectuals Association (ICMI) has condemned the military coup attempt in Turkey, saying it was aimed at ruining democracy.

"In my capacity as ICMI chairman, I call upon all democratic elements anywhere in the world to condemn in the strongest terms the military coup attempt in Turkey against the legitimate government," ICMI Chairman Prof Jimly Asshiddiqie said in a press statement released on Saturday.

Learning from the failed military coup in Turkey and post-conflict security conditions in Egypt and other Middle Eastern countries, the Indonesian people are now increasingly convinced that democratic civilization can flourish in the country, he added.

"Obviously, all such happenings have shored up our confidence that Indonesia has proved itself as a symbol of the worlds third largest democratic country and the worlds largest Muslim democratic country," he stated.

History has recorded that it is only in Indonesia that a democratic civilization can flourish in a peaceful way, he reiterated.

"It is proof that only in and from Indonesia, a democratic civilization can grow and become a source of inspiration for the rest of the world, particularly the Islamic world," he noted.

He further called upon all sides to pray for the Turkish nation so that it emerges strong and capable of facing any threat to itself.

The failed coup attempt against the Turkish legitimate government happened on Friday night.

A group of people who claimed to be part of the Turkish military said they have taken over power from President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who was reportedly on a working visit abroad.

However, the Turkish people along with the military who were opposed to the coup attempt, took to the street to protest against it and foiled it.(*)

Editor: Heru Purwanto
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