TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Hundreds of November 4 Rally participants have gathered at the Islamic Defender Front Central Executive Board’s office in Tanah Abang, Central Jakarta, on Thursday, November 3, 2016.
"Some of them come from Aceh, West Kalimantan, and Solo," South Tangerang branch of FPI member Syahrul told Tempo at the scene.
Syahrul said that the participants would not stay for the night at the office. He added that the office was used as a coordination base and logistics outpost. They will stay at several spots near the FPI Central Executive Board's office, including Al Ishlah Mosque.
"I arrived at noon today with others on a bus from Solo," Madiyono, 61, one of the participants said.
Madiyono added that he expected to arrive on Wednesday night, but his buss had an accident causing a delayed arrival.
In addition to Al Ishlah Mosque, the participants gathered at Al Baroqah Mosque. Hundreds of people who got off from 10 buses arrived on Thursday. They will stay for the night at three places.
"We have prepared tents and public kitchen. Hopefully we can accommodate more [people]," Mohammad Alatas, one of the caretakers of Al Baroqah Mosque said.
More participants are expected to arrive tonight. Syahrul said that the exact number could not be predicted.
The participants planned to attend the rally to be held on Friday, November 4, 2016 at the State Palace demanding President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo to investigate an alleged religious defamation case involving inactive Jakarta Governor Basuki "Ahok" Tjahaja Purnama.
EGI ADYATAMA
