TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Around 700 members of Forum Betawi Rempug (FBR) came to the Jakarta Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) office. The crowd of people intend to protest Basuki "Ahok" Tjahaja Purnama for being the governor of Jakarta because Ahok often pops provocative statement.

"We want to make clear that we reject Ahok not because of religion and ethnic," said Sani Airsan from FBR. He added that Betawi people are in fact tolerant by giving Ahok the chance to rule Jakarta. "However, it is Ahok's unethical attitude that makes us upset."

Sani claimed that a number of Betawi figures and Ulemas began to raise concern over Ahok's controversial statements. "His words tend to tear Jakarta apart," he said. "[Ahok] should be able to unite the people of Jakarta, instead of creating hostile situation."

Amsori from FBR's Legal Aid Department said that FBR urged the House of Representatives not to appoint Ahok as Jakarta governor. FBR also planned to visit the DPRD office each week. "Next Monday, we will come over with more members," said Amsori. "We will ensure that Ahok will not sit as governor and resign."

PRAGA UTAMA