dozens of community leaders complained about the inability of the state in resolving various SARA violence such as the assault of the Ahmadis in Cikeusik, Pandeglang, Banten and the riot in Temanggung, Central Java last week.
Jakarta (ANTARA News) - Chairman of the People`s Consultative Assembly (MPR) Taufik Kiemas said he would talk with President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono to discuss various violent incidents related to sensitive religious and racial issues of late.

"We would meet directly with President Susilo Bambang to discuss the violence," Taufik Kiemas after receiving dozens of community leaders at the parliament building said here on Monday

Previously, dozens of community leaders complained about the inability of the state in resolving various SARA violence such as the assault of the Ahmadis in Cikeusik, Pandeglang, Banten and the riot in Temanggung, Central Java last week.

The community leaders were received by Taufik Kiemas and MPR Vice Chairmen Lukman Hakim and Melanie Leimena.

The community leaders included Catholic Priest Romo Geni, Yeni Wahid of the Wahid Institute, Musda Mulya, Albertus Patty, Adhie Massardi, Usman Hamid, Wimar Witular, Djohan Effendi, Hendardi, and others.

Taufik further explained that his side shared the same opinion of the community leaders and fully support efforts to fight against violence.

"We will hold the meeting as soon as possible," said Taufik Kiemas.

Meanwhile, MPR Vice Chairman Lukman Hakim said there were two things that can be done by the MPR. The first is to hold regular meetings with leaders of state high institutions.

"Secondly, the MPR should encourage the government to hold a dialog in a forum to discuss SARA-based violence," said Lukman.

Meanwhile, Romo Geni said that violence in whatever name should be stopped in Indonesia.

"We just want the violence to stop. And the one that can do it is the MPR," says Geni.

In the meantime, Yeni Wahid said the visit of the public figures to the MPR because the MPR is the holder of people`s sovereignty.

"That`s why there is nothing wrong if the issue reported to the MPR," she said.

"MPR Leaders can hold a dialogue and ask it directly to the President as to why this is happening," said Yeni said.(*)

Editor: Heru Purwanto
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