President Returns to Palace After Reviewing Project Site

Jakarta, (Antara) - President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) has returned to the Presidential Palace after reviewing the project site of Bung Karno Sport Stadium (GBK) being renovated for the venue of Asian Games 2018.

The president arrived at the Gate IV of GBK at 8.15 am on Friday and reviewed the aquatic venue, located not far from the GBK main stadium.

After 30 minutes at the project site, Jokowi and his entourage returned to the Presidential Palace, but when asked about the ongoing mass prayer at the National Monument (Monas) Square, the president did not comment too much.

"Please ask the National Police chief," the smiling head of state replied.

However, Jokowi expressed hope that the mass prayer, participated by tens of thousands of Muslims from various mass organizations, can run in peace in accordance with a common commitment.

The mass prayer by Muslims, planned to begin at 8 am and to continue until the end of Friday prayer, is related to the legal proceedings against non-active Jakarta Governor Basuki Tjahaja Purnama (Ahok) who was accused of religious blasphemy.

Earlier on Monday, Jakarta Police's Chief Inspector, General M Iriawan, stated that the police are ready to secure the mass prayer and to serve the people participating in the event.

The police would prepare and arrange for the stage, accommodation, tents, beverages, water for ablutions and so on, he noted.

He refused to disclose the number of personnel deployed to secure the mass prayer.

"There will be sufficient number of personnel. We do not need additional personnel from other regions," Iriawan remarked.

He also could not estimate the number of people who would participate in the event.

"The mass prayer will include zikir (religious chant), lectures and Friday prayers," he pointed out.(*)