After the judges sentenced Jakarta Governor Basuki Tjahaja Purnama to two years of imprisonment for blasphemy, Home Affairs Ministry Tjahjo Kumolo appointedDeputyGovernor Djarot Saiful Hidayat to be the Acting Governor.
Home Affairs Minister will assign the DeputyGovernor as the Acting Governor until the service period of Ahok and Djarot is over (in October) and handed over to the definitive governor later," said Tjahjo Kumolo to reporters today.
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However, Djarot's appointment will only be in effect after the ministry receives the ruling documents from the court.
The government will send a letter today to the court to get a copy of todays ruling. Then, we will act upon it, he added. The copy will be the basis of our action. Then, well take formal steps to dismiss Ahok and appoint Djarot.
Ahok is now detained in the general crimes block at Cipinang Detention Center, East Jakarta. He was transported there after the ruling was announced this morning.
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Ahok'ssupporters have come to the detention center, many were in tears, to show their disappointment.
An aide of Ahok's was seen bringing food for him to the prison.
Meanwhile, Djarot went to visit Ahok at around 12.30 p.m., not long after the ruling was read.
In a separated interview, Djarot said that he is ready to take the responsibility as anacting governor.
I came in one package with Mr. Governor. So, yes, I am always ready to back him up whatever it is. [I am] Ready to take over any responsibility and ready to protect him as well, Djarot said in City Hall earlier.