The supporters — including several celebrities, such as singer Aura Kasih, actress Luna Maya, comedian Edric Tjandra, presenter Koes Hendratmo and Sonia Wibisono, a doctor who is also a TV presenter — appeared at Rumah Lembang to wait for Ahok at 8 a.m.
“I don't like racist people. Indonesia is a country with religious diversity upheld by its slogan Bhinneka Tunggal Ika [Unity in Diversity]. I support Pak Ahok and I hope the mental revolution can come true," Aura said at Rumah Lembang on Thursday.
On Wednesday, the National Police named Ahok a suspect for alleged blasphemy following a statement that cited a verse from the Quran, made in front of local residents in Thousand Islands regency on Sept. 27.
Meanwhile, Luna said she was surprised at the police’s decision to name Ahok a suspect, praising him as a governor who was successful in developing Jakarta.
“Let's vote for a leader who can represent all of us, instead of only one group, because we have Bhinneka Tunggal Ika. Let's not talk about SARA [matters pertaining to tribal affiliations, religion, race and societal groups],” she said.
During the event, several residents expressed their support for Ahok, conveyed complaints about problems in the city and took the opportunity to pose for pictures with the governor. To bolster the moral support for Ahok, they also sang “Maju Tak Gentar” (Press on Bravely). (ebf)
By Callistasia Anggun Wijaya