Indonesia, A Muslim-Dominant Nation, Swears In First Christian Governor In 50 Years

Because of all the news coming out of the Middle East, it is well-known how Muslim-dominant nations generally treat their Christian citizens. The Inquisitr reported many times on what happens to Christians in Muslim-dominant countries, especially when terrorist fanatics like the Islamic State (IS) cause trouble. However, Christians in the Middle East are taking a stand as thousands of them arm themselves against the IS. Even the world is taking notice of the persecution too, such as Roma Downey and Mark Burnett raising funds for Iraqi Christians. Prince Charles even condemned IS, calling the killing of Middle Eastern Christians a “soul-destroying tragedy.”

Despite the rising tensions among the Christians and Muslims in Muslim-Dominant countries, news is coming out of another Muslim-dominant country. After 50 years, the country is swearing in their first Christian governor. What is ironic is this county has the highest Muslim population in the world, according to a 2010 census, and it isn’t located in the Middle East.

According to an article by Charisma News and followed up by Breaking News, Jakarta, the capitol of Indonesia, swore in their first Christian governor in nearly 50 years. Basuki Tjahaja Purnama — better known by his nickname “Ahok” — has been acting governor since Joko Widodo stepped aside last month to become the country’s president.

With the fact that Indonesia has the highest Muslim population of any country in the world, Ahok being sworn into office was met with protest. Hundreds of Islamic hardliners over the last few weeks have protested against Ahok’s inauguration, especially since Ahok is taking control of one of Indonesia’s most powerful political positions. However, on the day of being sworn into office, only a small group of peaceful protesters showed up. Afterwards, Ahok made a statement about the protesters to reporters.

“I don’t need to be approved by everyone. The ones that deny me aren’t Jakartans. They come from Bekasi, Depok, Bogor, which are not in my territory.”

It should also be reported that Ahok is the first ethnic Chinese governor of Jakarta too. Yet it is his reputation that is being praised. Ahok is known for being transparent, no-nonsense, and at time, abrasive. As a matter of fact, Ahok’s style is so admired by many that even Muslim organizations have voiced their support for him.

Still, Indonesia is suffering a rise in attacks over the last decade against Christians, Shia Muslims, and members of Ahmadiyah, a small Islamic sect. The Widodo Administration have pledged to protect all religious minorities in Indonesia but experts believe he will be hamstrung by parliament.

What do you think about Indonesia — the country with the highest Muslim population — swearing in their first Christian governor in fifty years?

[Image via Reuters]