On April 14, Abu Bakar Bashir, a Muslim cleric accused of leading the Jama'ah Islamiyah (JI) terror network, was charged with treason. He is alleged to have helped plan a series of bombings on Christmas Eve 2000 which left 19 dead. He is also accused of involvement in a foiled attempt to bomb foreign embassies in Singapore. If convicted, he could face life imprisonment or the death sentence.
His lawyers are attempting to have him released until his trial because of his age and health, but it is expected that Indonesia's president will insist that he remain in prison. There are fears that, if released, he would disappear and be unavailable for trial.
The fact that Bashir is being charged at all is seen by many as a positive move, since the Indonesian government has been reluctant to put accused Muslim terrorists on trial for fear of antagonizing Indonesia's predominantly Muslim population.
This trial comes at the same time that Rev. Rinaldy Damanik is facing weapons charges and remains in custody despite being very weak. Recent reports indicate that the prosecution has yet to produce any real evidence or credible witness. Christians in Indonesia contend that Damanik was framed by the police.
Pray that Bashir will remain in jail until the trial and that he will be convicted of the crimes he has committed. Pray for justice for Rev. Damanik and that there will be a move toward more equitable justice in Indonesia.
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