Court to proceed with Rizieq trial

JAKARTA: The Central Jakarta District Court judges ruled on Wednesday to proceed with the trial of Islamic Defenders Front (FPI) chairman Habib Rizieq Shihab who is charged with insulting the authorities and instigating a string of vandalism attacks in the city.

Presiding Judge Herry Swantoro said the panel of judges rejected arguments delivered by Habib and his legal team who questioned the authority of the court to hold the trial as well as calling the indictment obscure.

"The indictment prepared by the prosecutors is clear, accurate and flawless. The indictment is accepted and to be used in next hearings," the judge told the courtroom which was packed with FPI supporters.

The judges adjourned the hearing until next Wednesday to hear witness testimony.

Members of FPI attacked a number of entertainment venues here in the past few years, but it was not until late last year, after the Bali bombings, that the police decided to take legal action against them and other militant religious groups.

Prosecutor Hasan Basrie charged Habib with violating Articles 154 and 160 of the Criminal Code as he had allegedly expressed resentment and insulted the Jakarta administration, instigating violence in public places and resisting arrest.

If found guilty, Rizieq could face a maximum seven-year jail term.

To reporters, Rizieq said he was ready to face a trial. "I am never disappointed with what God has decided for me. The judges decisions will also be part of God's decisions," he added.

Rizieq is now being held at Salemba Prison in Central Jakarta but his lawyers asked the court to release him from detention. The judges plan to decide on his detention in the next hearing. -- JP