Crowds Gathering in Jokowi's Visit to NTT Allegedly Violate Health Protocols

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Founder of the Islamic Brotherhood Front or FPI Munarman said crowds gathering for President Joko Widodo or Jokowi’s visit in Maumere, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), could be subject to Article 160 of the Criminal Code on the incitement of criminal acts.

The article was also imposed on Rizieq Shihab, the leader of the now-disbanded Islamic Defenders Front (FPI) for causing crowds.

The indication emerged as the President distributed gift packages to the crowds, Munarman added.

“Don't forget that gifts are given during the activity which is an element of incitement to the masses to attend the crowds, which is a violation of the health protocols,” Munarman told Tempo on Wednesday, February 24.

Although he suspected such a violation, Munarman said his side could not make a report to the police since the crowd was included in the general offense, not a complaint. Thus, an investigation must be an initiative of the police.

“Law enforcers are welcomed to act the same as they do to HRS (Habis Rizieq Shihab), please. The Indonesian people are waiting for justice,” Munarman remarked.

The viral 30-second video footage displayed President Jokowi inside a car waving at the people gathering around the black vehicle. Wearing a white shirt and black face mask, he gave out packages towards the crowds.

Presidential Secretariat deputy head of protocol, press, and media Bey Machmudin confirmed the event, saying it occurred in Maumere, NTT. Bey argued that the crowds gathering was spontaneity and enthusiasm of the local people to welcome President Jokowi.

Also Read: Jokowi Orders Food Estate Expansion in East Nusa Tenggara

M JULNIS FIRMANSYAH | DEWI NURITA