Rizieq Shihab Homecoming Fiasco Sparks Conflict among 212 Members

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The 212 Alumni spokesman Aminuddin demanded the 212 alumni brotherhood (PA 212) to issue an official apology for spreading misleading information regarding the homecoming of Islamic Defenders Front (FPI) leader Rizieq Shihab.

“The 212 alumni brotherhood that had formed a committee to welcome the Imam (Rizieq) home must take responsibility professionally by holding a press conference,” said Aminuddin on Wednesday, February 21.

The 212 Alumnus consist of members from Muslim groups and the general public that participated in the massive rally held on December 12, 2016, to protest against former Jakarta Governor Basuki Tjahaja Purnama (Ahok).

Read: Rizieq Shihab Cancels Return, Welcoming Committee Apologizes

According to Aminuddin, the PA 212 must provide an explanation on why Rizieq Shihab canceled his homecoming and apologize to the people especially those who came to the airport to welcome Rizieq Shihab.

Furthermore, he explained that the PA 212 must not use Rizieq Shihab as an object of speculation that can ruin their follower’s trust. “The PA 212 must also transparently report the use of funds collected from fellow members,” he explained.

Read: FPI Orders Supporters to Go Home as Rizieq Shihab Cancels Return

The PA 212 already denied the news of Rizieq Shihab’s return to Indonesia ever since the rumor broke out. Many followers considered the denial as a misleading opinion. However, the PA 212 continued to form a committee to welcome the FPI leader at the Soekarno-Hatta Airport.

Another conflict sparked within the group is the split opinion about the group naming as the 212 alumni presidium or 212 alumni brotherhood. Some allegations from within the group suggest that either side was actually illegally formed.

Dewi Nurita