Depriving Ahmadiyah of Their Rights

The expulsion of Ahmadiyah followers from Bangka has shown once again the weakness of the state when it comes to protecting minorities. It is even more unfortunate that local government officials were involved in the eviction. This means that the state supports and participates in acts of discrimination.

Last week, hundreds of Sri Menanti villagers at Sungai Liat in Bangka Induk regency asked Ahmadiyah followers to leave not just Bangka but Belitung province as well. Their mosque was sealed. They were ordered to convert to Sunni Islam. Instead of ordering these fanatics to be tolerant, Bangka Regency Secretary Ferry Inani called for the Ahmadiyah followers to repent. Bangka Regent Tarmizi Saat even gave them a deadline, telling them to leave Bangka by February 5.