Ridwan Kamil: West Java Residents Should not Come to MK

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - West Java Governor Ridwan Kamil urged his residents not to come to Jakarta to see the Presidential Election dispute trial at the Constitutional Court (MK).

"Better not [come]. We just monitor it from the television, from the media, how the trials progresses. I think we can witness what is happening in the country by watching television," Ridwan said in Bandung on Thursday, June 13, 2019.

Ridwan said that the May 21-22 riot can repeat if people come to demonstrate during the trial at MK on Friday, June 14, 2019. "It is proven on May 22. Once there is a large mass, here are those who infiltrate them to ruin [their good intention], of those who wanted to demonstrate in peace. But is is difficult to distinguish [provocateurs] in a condition like today, and with the addition of [other issues]," he said.

Ridwan assured the public to put their faith on MK. "Because MK is a n honourable institution that can make sure law [will be enforced] justly," Ridwan said.

Ridwan expressed his concern that the presence of large masses in Jakarta to demonstrate the MK trial will adversely affect the Capital’s situation. "Whether the masses are there or not ill not affect the judges, but it will affect the safety in Jakarta," he stated.

Previously, Ridwan had met with West Java Regional Police Chief and Commander of the Military Area Command III to discuss the issue. "We have a commitment to maintain conduciveness, leave all the process to MK," he said.

West Java Regional Police Chief Insp. Gen. Rudy Sufahriadi also mentioned similar concern. Rudy however, asserted that the police will not prevent  anyone who wanted to come to MK. "But if we have make suggestion, it would be better if the public wait for MK's explanation. MK has its due process," Rudy said as quoted from a written statement on Thursday, June 13, 2019.

AHMAD FIKRI (CONTRIBUTOR)