FPI decision<\/p>\n
The Islamic Defenders Front (FPI) declared the freezing of its
\nmilitia on Wednesday, just three weeks after another radical
\ngroup Laskar Jihad dissolved itself.<\/p>\n
Both the FPI and Laskar Jihad said the main reason for the
\ndecision was to clean up the organization from elements which
\ncould damage their reputations.<\/p>\n
It is obvious that both the FPI and Laskar Jihad had become
\nthe front-runners in fighting for the \"interests\" of Islam.
\nLaskar Jihad had been active in helping their Muslim brothers in
\nconflict areas like Poso and Maluku, while the FPI had been too
\nvigorous in raiding nightspots and other establishments they
\nbelieved to be used for maksiat (immorality).<\/p>\n
Their existence was in fact useful, but the way they sought to
\nfight evil and immorality evoked fear among the people. With
\nswords and other weapons in their hands when \"defending\" their
\nreligion they stigmatized themselves. Therefore, many branded
\nthem hardcore Muslims, fundamentalist Islamic groups or radical
\nMuslims.<\/p>\n
Both the FPI and Laskar Jihad said they would concentrate on
\npropagating Islam and avoid violence. Their decision deserves
\nwarm welcome. Law enforcers should also be responsive and uphold
\nthe law properly for the sake of the people.<\/p>\n
-- Republika, Jakarta<\/p>", "url": "https:\/\/jawawa.id\/newsitem\/fpi-decision-1447899208", "image": "" }, "sponsor": "Okusi Associates", "sponsor_url": "https:\/\/okusiassociates.com" }