President Jokowi Reaffirms His Commitment to Democracy

President Jokowi, accompanied by Cabinet Secretary and Presidential Chief of Staff, welcomes a number of faith leaders at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, Thursday (26/9). (Photo by: Jay/PR)

President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo has reaffirmed his commitment to democracy in Indonesia. The President emphasized that freedom of the press and freedom of expression are pillars of democracy that must be safeguarded.

“Do not doubt my commitment (to democracy),” President Jokowi said when welcoming faith leaders at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, Thursday (26/9).

The faith leaders present during the meeting were, among others, Secretary General of Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU) Helmy Faishal Zaini; Chairperson of Yogyakarta Regional Council of Muhammadiyah Dr. H. Agus Taufiqurrahman; Chairperson of the Indonesian Catholic Bishops Conference (KWI) Mgr. Ignatius Suharyo; Chairperson of the Indonesian Communion of Churches (PGI) Rev. Dr. Henriette Tabita Lebang; Chairperson of the Indonesian Buddhist Association (Permabudhi) Arief Harsono; Chairperson of the High Council of Confucianism in Indonesia (Matakin) Ws. Budi Santoso Tanuwibowo; and Chairperson of the Parisada Hindu Dharma Indonesia (PHDI) Maj. Gen. (ret) Wisnu Bawa Tenaya.

On that occasion, President Jokowi conveyed several messages to the leaders, including on forest fires, Papua, Law on anti-graft body KPK, Criminal Code Bill, and on demonstrations happening in recent days. (FID/JAY/ES)

Translated by: Ridwan Ibadurrohman
Edited by: Mia Medyana