TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The General Elections Commission (KPU) stated a political discussion in the worship place is allowed so long the topic is not related to either general or regional election.

“Talking about politics is permissible, but that of the campaign is prohibited. If the topic is included in the definition of the campaign, then it is forbidden,” said KPU member Wahyu Setiawan in his office, Friday, April 27.

Wahyu explained politics and political campaign are different subjects. Politics, he said, has a broad meaning and that not only about the election, but also commodity price and eradication of narcotics.

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“As for the campaign, based on the law, it is forbidden to be discussed in the worship place,” said Wahyu. Referred to the Law No. 7/2017, the campaign is a series of actions related to the election conducted by the participant or other party chosen by the participant to assure the voter by promoting the vision, mission, program, and or the image of the participant.

KPU reminded that the campaign period has yet begun and so that the political party is only allowed to socialize their concern within the internal circle and display their flag.

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The debate on the issue of politicization in the worship place was emerged following the chairman of the Board of Trustees at the National Mandate Party (PAN) Amien Rais' statement last Tuesday in Jakarta City Hall, noting that political subject should be included in religious activity or teaching.

CAESAR AKBAR