Margareth S. Aritonang, Jakarta – As the court has ruled an unexpected verdict, which drags Christian Jakarta Governor Basuki "Ahok" Tjahaja Purnama to jail, opposition parties – Gerindra Party and Prosperous Justice Party (PKS) – may feel relieved, showing their high appreciation to the judges.

"I think the verdict has strong legal evidence and represents the justice all people want," Gerindra executive Fadli Zon said at the House of Representatives complex on Tuesday.

The House deputy speaker added the people should learn from the case that no one is allowed to commit blasphemy against religions.

Islamic-based PKS lawmaker Jazuli Juwaini wanted all parties to accept the verdict. "I hope this is fair, and we should also respect Ahok's plan to file an appeal," Jazuli said.

Gerindra and PKS are among parties opposing Ahok, an ally of President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo, in the Jakarta election. Their candidate Anies Baswedan won the Jakarta gubernatorial election beating Ahok.

It was also Gerindra that supported an inquiry initiated by the Democratic Party on February against the government as the Home Ministry allowed Ahok to keep his job despite being on trial for blasphemy.

The inquiry plan was blocked by the government allies, including the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P), the leader of Ahok's coalition in the election.

Fadli, along with hundreds of thousands of Muslim hard-liners, joined an anti-Ahok rally on Nov. 4. (foy/dmr)

Source: http://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2017/05/09/gerindra-pks-welcome-ahok-verdict.html