Tito Karnavian Reviews FPI's Internal Rules, Bylaws

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian said the Ministry of Religious Affairs was reviewing the rules of association and internal bylaws (AD/ART) of the Islamic Defenders Front (FPI) that noting an Islamic caliphate.

The hardline group stated that its vision and mission is to implement Islamic law as a whole under the Islamic administration (Khilafah Islamiyah) based on manhaj nubuwwah by carrying out da’wah or lecturers, enforcing Islamic rule or hisbah, and carrying out jihad.

"This is what being explored by the Ministry of Religious Affairs as questions arise about the words," said Tito during a meeting with the House of Representatives' (DPR) Commission II at the Parliament Complex, Senayan, Jakarta, Thursday, November 28.

The former police chief explained that the implementation of Islam as a whole in terms of theological theory means a good movement. However, he questioned the term sharia Indonesia (NKRI bersyariah) voiced by FPI.

“Is it like in Aceh (that applies religious administration)? If so, how is the response from other public elements, nationalists, minorities?” he said.

According to Tito, the idea would encourage others to create local regulations that are following the majority belief in their respective regions, for instance, Bali with the majority of Hindus. Besides, he did not deny that Khilafah (caliphate) is a sensitive term in Indonesia.

Therefore, the ministry was studying the bylaws and would hold a dialogue with FPI for clarification. Tito recalled that the group had previously signed a letter declaring its loyalty to Pancasila and Indonesia.

Previously, several members of the DPR's Commission II demanded Tito Karnavian be mindful of issuing a renewal of the organization permit for FPI. However, he was tight-lipped when asked about the Religious Affairs Ministry’s attitude for releasing a recommendation letter on the permit renewal.

BUDIARTI UTAMI PUTRI