JAKARTA, Indonesia (AFP) – Hardline Muslims rallied Tuesday under heavy police guard outside an Indonesian courthouse where Jakarta’s Christian governor is standing trial in a high-profile blasphemy case that has gripped national attention.
Basuki Tjahaja Purnama – the first Christian to govern the capital in more than 50 years – arrived at court flanked by lawyers and police for the first day of his trial on charges of insulting the Koran.
The governor bowed to the panel of five judges before being seated alone in the center of the courtroom as proceedings began.
Purnama, better known by his nickname Ahok, could be jailed for up to five years if found guilty of breaking Indonesia’s tough blasphemy laws.
He ignited a firestorm of criticism in September when he controversially quoted a Koranic verse while campaigning in elections for the Jakarta governorship.
Purnama apologized but his remarks angered Muslims – both moderate and conservative – who marched against the governor in rallies larger than any seen in Indonesia in many years.
Outside the courthouse, dozens of hardline Islamists chanted “God is Great” and waved signs depicting Purnama behind bars in prison garb.
“The Koran is our guide. Jail Ahok right away!” they yelled, pumping their fists in the air.