Suswono Apologizes Alludes To The Prophet Muhammad When Proposal For A Rich Widow To Marry An Unemployed Youth

Jakarta Cawagub Suswono/PHOTO: Rizky Adytia-VOI

JAKARTA - Jakarta Deputy Governor candidate Suswono apologized for his statement that caused a polemic about the proposal for a rich widow to marry an unemployed young man like the story of the Prophet Muhammad and his wife, Khadijah.

The proposal was previously conveyed by Suswono when holding a meeting with Bang Japar volunteers at the Nyi Ageng Serang Building, South Jakarta, Saturday, October 26.

"Saya menyadari bahwa pernyataan saya dalam pertemuan dengan relawan Bang Japar telah menimbulkan polemik, atas hal itu saya minta maaf, sekaligus mencabut pernyataan tersebut," ujar Suswono dalam keterangannya, Senin, 28 Oktober.

Suswono said the statement was conveyed in a joking context to respond to the criticism of one of the residents in socialization activities.

Therefore, there is no intention of offending the widow, let alone the Prophet Muhammad, who is an example for her

"However, I admit that the joke is inappropriate and wise. Whatever the explanation, I fully admit my mistake. The joke, although intended to convey concern to orphans and widows and youth in Jakarta, is clearly not in place," he explained.

Suswono emphasized that the conversation related to the polemic that occurred was not part of the RIDO program.

"I emphasize that this is not part of the RIDO program. We are committed to the empowerment program of weak and vulnerable groups," he said.

Suswono also said that he would be more careful in speaking. So, his words do not cause polemics in society.

"Let's continue the discussion about programs that bring benefits to the people of Jakarta," said Suswono.

For information, Suswono's statement was responded by the Regional Management (PW) of the DKI Jakarta Ansor GP. In fact, the candidate for Deputy Governor of Jakarta number 1 will be reported to the police because it is considered to have hurt Muslims.

"The most fatal, the Prophet Muhammad is definitely not a poor man and unemployed like the analogy conveyed by Suswono. We strongly condemn this statement and will plan to report this to the authorities," said PW Secretary GP Ansor DKI Jakarta Sulton.