Civilian groups' arrogance

Civilian groups' arrogance

From Gatra

The period from July to August saw the closure of Christian churches in Garut and Bandung, West Java, by the Anti-Apostasy Movement Alliance (AGAP) and the Anti-Apostasy Front (BAP). The action even spread to Jakarta with a threats made on a Christian church in Ciledug.

AGAP and BAP argued that the forced closures were due to local people's objections to the presence of these buildings of worship. They said the churches also violated regulations in a joint ministerial decree in 1969, which served as the basis of their action.

However, this action displayed a civilian arrogance, the groups' disrespect for the 1945 Constitution, security institutions and also human rights; in this case the freedom to religious worship.

I call for President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono to revoke the 1969 decree, restore the dignity of communities victimized by the action, and instruct the police to deal sternly with vigilantism and thuggery.

Meanwhile, all elements of interfaith movements in our society must work to maintain the harmony they have so far fostered, amid attempts to spoil the value of religious peace.

SUDARYONO Jakarta