TEMPO.CO, Jakarta-Deputy Head of Legal and Law Commission of Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) Ikhsan Abdullah has urged Jakarta Governor Basuki “Ahok” Tjahaja Purnama to fulfill the rights of the evicted residents of Pasar Ikan and Akuarium, Penjaringan, North Jakarta to an adequate standard of living as many as 740 residents are still dwelling in the post-eviction land.
“The fact is, they have returned to the tents, because they found no facilities available [in the flats]. Mobility to work place was not being considered [by the government], their source of living have gone,” Ikhsan said at the MUI office, Monday, May 2, 2016.
Ikhsan considered that residents shall be equal before the law. They are entitled to decent a living, which include social rights. According to him, the residents felt that they have been treated unfairly because their rights have been ignored by Jakarta city administration.
The MUI hoped that Jakarta Governor can build livable flats for evicted residents. Ihksan said the MUI will support the government if the post-eviction land is managed better. The government, however, has to ensure that development will be carried out in favor of the people.
Ikhsan compared the treatment of Rohingyas refugees in Medan with that of evicted residents in Pasar Ikan and Akuarium. He said that Rohingnya refugees have been provided with decent tents and are allowed to attend school. He asked Jakarta administration to treat evicted residents properly. At present, the tents are provided by the Navy, instead of local administration. “The state has to protect its citizens. As a governor, [Ahok] has to adhere to the constitution,” he said.
Ikhsan said the MUI will send a letter to Ahok asking for a discussion on the planned development of the post-eviction land. The MUI plans to summon land experts to study the post-eviction land. The agency will seek better prosperity for the people. “After that, we will send the letter,” he said.
DANANG FIRMANTO