Mathias Hariyadi

The ruling against the Christian governor causes tensions and controversy. The blasphemy is a pretext used to exert social and political pressure on opponents. The court failed to exert its independence, said Surya Chandra. "Article 156a of the Criminal Code article is elastic," Antonius Yudo said. "Any opinion or claim other than that of the majority and not in accordance with the dictates of the Islamic Council of Ulema (MUI) can be called blasphemy,” Ismail Hasani said.

"Politics has interfered with the legal process". "A dangerous decision by judges for the development of law and justice in the country." "How can Indonesia be defined as a 'secular state based on the rule of law?'". "The implications of the sentence go far beyond the court's walls". "Judges have issued a socially ‘friendly 'verdict."

The Jakarta governor has been brought to Cipinang Prison. The sentence is hasher than the demands of the public prosecutors. The case divided the nation and gave force to radical Islamic groups. The contrast between radical movements and moderate groups underscored. The political situation is not beneficial to President Joko Widodo.

Minister Wiranto announced the decision today. Active in Indonesia since 1980, HTI is involved in clandestine activities to promote the caliphate in the country. It has sparked social conflicts among Indonesia’s different religions. The Widodo administration had previously banned the Fajar Nusantara (Gafatar) movement.

Three priests are ordained in the diocese of Bandung, seven in Manado, and four in Sibolga. Ordinations usually take place in seminaries or episcopal sees. For many Catholics, such locations are a challenge because they are far away and lack the facilities to accommodate large numbers.

Citizens want to express their admiration. Each day thousands go to the town hall. The area in front of the palace flooded with signposts and floral decorations. Radical Islamist group's initiatives against the Christian governor continue. On 9 May the verdict of the blasphemy trial. Ahok: "Disliked and hated because of my faith and my ideas."

Some 59 per cent Indonesians are intolerant towards minorities. Religious radicalism is on the rise. At least 11.5 million people are "spiritually" ready to change Indonesian society. The last election was poisoned by religious conflict. For Sinta Nuriyah Wahid, " radical groups have their own political agenda,” namely “the Islamic State of Indonesia”. Only 11 per cent of Indonesians are strongly opposed to an Islamic nation.

Prosecutors call for two years' probation with a possible one-year jail term if the accused breaks the law during this period. The maximum sentence in such cases is five years. Islamic extremists slam the prosecutors’ request. The latter acknowledge the outgoing governor’s "great work" in the capital.

Seven religious organisations take part in a joint press conference to encourage voters to exercise their rights and respect the outcome of tomorrow's election. During the election campaign, religion was used and manipulated by Islamic extremist groups.

Indonesians come into contact with the Church in schools and the workplace. Many catechumens are converted by the testimonies of priests and religious.

Spiritual retreats are organised in preparation for the renewal of priestly promises. For Indonesia’s Catholics, seeing so many religious is a source of joy and curiosity. Catholics in Semarang, Malang and Bogor show enthusiasm.

STAKatN was known as the Santo Agustinus Pastoral Institute. State recognition is the result of the support of important local Catholic leaders. The lack of priests and catechists is one of the biggest problems for Kalimantan’s Catholic community. For Mgr Pius Riana Prapdi, the lack of Catholic educators is the main obstacle to spreading the Faith.