Basuki Tjahaja Purnama has been stripped of his gubernatorial title and has been detained since yesterdays ruling that sent him to two years of imprisonment for blasphemy against Islam, but support for him shows no sign of receding. It only gets bigger.
Last night, thousands of people came to Cipinang Penitentiary in East Jakarta to show support for the fallen Governor. Many have come since early afternoon to see him entering the building and demand for his release.
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The support didnt stop there. When Ahok arrived, he was welcomed by wardens and workers of the penitentiary who somehow had time to ask for pictures with him.
Berlokasi di depan LP Cipinang, massa meminta Ahok dibebaskan. pic.twitter.com/xTnTNg1dt0
Tuho Sakti (@TuhoSakti88) May 9, 2017
Djarot addressed the crowd with a 7-minute speech.
I met Pak Ahok last night, and he told me to tell you all that we have to respect the ruling and law, but the fight is far from over, he said. We have to accept the ruling with a big heart. Let the judges take responsibility of their action in front of the people and God. Let our conscience see whats fair and whats not; whats good and whats evil.
Tomorrow is Vesak Day for our Buddhist friends. Vesak sends a message of peace. Peace for all Jakartans, all Indonesians. Thats what Pak Ahok told me.
Djarot called for the supporters to stay calm and avoid chaos.
If you love Pak Ahok, this is what I ask you to do: no anarchy. We have to set an example that we are Indonesians who hold Bhineka Tunggal Ika high.
He also asked for support as he has to take over Ahoks position as the citys leader.
I ask for your blessings to continue our fight to serve the people, to build Jakarta and to make you all proud that we have this city as Indonesias capital. I am proud of you. Thank you for coming here, I didnt expect the crowd to be this big."
Take care and keep Pak Ahok and his family in your prayer. May God give them strength, good health and patience. May God also give all of us the strength to keep doing good for the people.
There is another vigil for Ahok tonight at Tugu Proklamasi, Central Jakarta starting from 6 p.m..