"We are ready to defend our country. We will not tolerate anyone who divides this nation," Chairman of the Indonesia Ulema Council Ma`ruf Amin said.
Jakarta (ANTARA News) - President Joko Widodo received leaders of Islamic organizations, namely the Indonesia Ulema Council, Nahdlatul Ulama and Muhammadiyah to discuss a number of current issues, including law enforcement and order in Indonesia.

"We are ready to defend our country. We will not tolerate anyone who divides this nation," Chairman of the Indonesia Ulema Council Maruf Amin said here on Tuesday.

He said that the alleged case of blasphemy involving Jakarta Governor Basuki Tjahaja Purnama (Ahok) had sparked public controversy.

"Therefore, the police should investigate the case fairly. The president will not intervene in the legal process," he affirmed.

He urged people to conduct rallies respectfully, peacefully and in an orderly way.

"People should not be anarchic and not be easily provoked," he emphasized.

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.

Widodo earlier 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 demonstrations are democratic rights of citizens, but they do not have the right to impose their will or create damages.

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.

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.(*)

Editor: Heru Purwanto
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