Gus Yaqut Believed To Continue His Predecessor's Promise To Eradicate Radicalism

JAKARTA - Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Quomas is predicted to continue the previous minister's promise to solve radicalism in Indonesia. Yaqut is said to have a similar mindset to Fachrul Razi about radicalism.

This opinion was expressed by a political observer who is also the Executive Director of the Indonesia Political Opinion (IPO) Dedi Kurnia Syah. Dedi read Yaqut's background, namely the chairman of the GP Ansor who was anti-radicalism.

"Reading the perspective on the radicalism of the new Minister of Religion, I think he will continue what the previous minister had planned," Dedi told VOI, Wednesday, December 23.

But in eradicating radicalism, Yaqut is considered to be using a different method. What is clear is that in dealing with the problems or issues of radicalism, Yaqut will no longer be able to go around. As a minister, Gus Yaqut must coordinate with other related parties.

"Technically, the minister understands much better, but what is certain is that for the issue of radicalism, the minister cannot decide policies alone, other relevant ministries are needed, so there is a need for a common vision," he explained.

Meanwhile, Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) scholar Ulil Abshar Abdallah said the appointment of Yaqut Cholil Quomas as Minister of Religion was the right step. Gus Yaqut is said to be a figure who can realize Joko Widodo (Jokowi) 's goal of creating unity between groups.

"This is more consistent and in line with (call it) the diversity of politics of the Jokowi government so far," he said.

In addition, the organization that was once led by Gus Yaqut was also known as a movement that always defended minorities. Therefore, he is considered to be a figure worthy of creating harmony.

"During the last twenty years, Ansor and Banser are Islamic movements that dare to 'put up bodies' to defend minorities," he said.