REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA – The Interior Minister Tjahjo Kumolo denied for sharing the personal identity of Veronica Koman, the demonstrator who conveyed her speech in front of Cipinang Detention Center demanding the convicted in blasphemy case, Basuki Tjahaja Purnama (Ahok), to be released.

Tjahjo said the personal identity was tracked as valid evidence to give her a letter asking for Veronica’s confirmation on his speech. It was argued to be a slander to the government under President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) leadership.

“Not me. The journalist spread it. Only one person. He asked me whether I have valid evidence. I have. What is the evidence? This is. It is impossible that I sent a letter. It should be a valid data,” said the minister in Presidential Palace, Jakarta, on Friday (May 12).

As a part of Jokowi’s government, Tjahjo admitted to be offended by the speech. Therefore, he took an action to defend the state leader.

“I am a part of the government. I should defend the President,” he said.

He also argued that Veronica’s speech was not only a critic, but also a slander to the government. It did not intervene the judges’ decision to Ahok who was charged by the law of blasphemy.  

According to Tjahjo, the clarification letter was hoped to give explanation on Veronica’s speech. “I just want a clarification to what is the purpose of the speech. May be she was emotional. If it was clear, it is clear. I will do nothing but remind her,” said Tjahjo.

Also read: Ahok is jailed, President: Please believe in legal mechanism

Tjahjo said the clarification letter showed good willing of the government to remind Veronica. The letter had been sent on Thursday (May 5).

“It was sent yesterday. Please wait. Only a good willing to remind her,” he said.

On Tuesday night, Ahok’s supporter named Veronica Koman joined a demonstration in front Cipinang Detention Center demanding on Ahok’s release. On that occasion, she said Jokowi’s regime was worse that SBY’s.

“I stand here to defend Ahok as the justice had trampled on. Jokowi’s regime was worse than SBY’s,” said Veronica.

In a press release, Interior Ministry said to be successful in identifying Veronica’s personal data. The minister asked her to clarify the statement as it was argued to be a slander.

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