National

religious leaders told to maintain social harmony

Selasa, 26 November 2013 | 04:52 WIB

Jakarta, NU Online
Minister of Religious Affairs, Suryadharma Ali asked all religious leaders and Islamic organizations to maintain harmony in community on upcoming political year 2014. Religious leaders have roles to raise understanding among public to ensure the success of political transition process.<>

"Therefore, all religious leaders and their followers can help government to maintain a conducive atmosphere. I hope they will not drag people into political conflict," Ali said recently.

All religious leaders were also considered able to reduce number of non-voters in 2014 General Election. So, he said, all citizens of the nation could continue to use their political rights.

Secretary General of the Central Board of Nahdlatul Ulama (NU), KH. Marsudi Syuhud explained that NU had taken role in maintaining harmony among religious leaders through Friendship Institute for Islamic Organizations (Organisasi Persahabatan Ormas Islam). This organization aims to establish communication among Islamic organizations.

While, Chairman of Muhammadiyah, Haidar Nashir said that religious leaders had an important role in maintaining political stability next year. Muhammadiyah also has long been active in political participation."A religious leader must be mediator," Nashir said.

Editing by Sudarto Murtaufiq