REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA -- Supporters of former Basuki Tjahaja Purnama "Ahok" started to gather at Mako Brimob, Kelapa Dua, Depok, West Java. They wanted to celebrate the release of former Jakarta governor on Thursday (Jan 24).

"If necessary, I will stay here to celebrate the release of Ahok tommorow," one of "Ahoker" named Agus here on Wednesday (Jan 23).

Beside Agus, four other supporters with checkered shirt also gathered at a bus shelter in front of Gideon Church, near Mako Brimob. Agus who came from North Jakarta said he spontaneously driven to visit Mako Brimob soon after hearing the relase date of Ahok.

Agus opined that Ahok is a figure needed by the country. He loved Ahok for being populist and has a good performance during his administration.

Another Ahoker, Wibowo also welcomed the release of Ahok after serving the two-years sentence in blasphemy case.

"We do not know yet about the next agenda after the release of Ahok, we will see," Wibowo who came from Depok said.

Wibowo said that two years ago, he came to Mako Brimob when Ahok was transfered from Cipinang Prison. He wanted to be there when Ahok is being released.

Meanwhile, Chairman of Ahok Friends Association, Muhammad Fahtoni said the community did not prepare special event to celebrate the release of Ahok. According to him, it was done to fullfil Ahok's request.

Fathoni said Ahok has asked his supporters to not holding any event to greet his freedom. Ahok made the request in a written statement a while ago.

"Pak Ahok says in his letter to avoid holding event or gathering, so we do not prepare any celebration and will use social media instead," he said when contacted by Republika.co.id, Wednesday.

Ahok was convicted in a blasphemy case and sentenced to 2 years in prison. He has been serving a jail term since May 2017.

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