Jokowi Leads Friday Prayers in Solo Amidst Enthusiastic Crowd
Joko Widodo Commemorates First Friday Prayer Post-Presidency at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Solo
On October 25, 2024, the former President of Indonesia, Joko Widodo, popularly known as Jokowi, undertook a significant visit to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Solo City. This visit marked his first participation in Friday prayers following the conclusion of his administrative tenure, a moment imbued with both personal significance and communal reverence.
Upon arrival at the mosque around 11:32 AM (WIB), Jokowi was greeted warmly by a gathering of congregants eager to connect with the former president. Clad in a traditional white koko shirt, he was accompanied by his youngest son, Kaesang Pangarep. The choice to enter through the main entrance – a departure from his prior presidential protocol – established a more relatable and approachable persona, attracting the attention of worshippers eager to extend handshakes and capture photographs with him.
The anecdotal moment underscores the warm public sentiment surrounding Jokowi, who served as the seventh president of Indonesia from 2014 to 2024. His ability to engage with citizens in a casual capacity reflects not only his personal charm but also the deep connection he cultivated with the Indonesian populace throughout his presidency.
After a brief exchange with congregants eager to commemorate this unusual visit, Jokowi proceeded into the mosque, accompanied by a security detail from the Presidential Security Force (Paspampres). He took a seat in the front row, ready to engage in the Friday prayers which were led by KH Ibrahim Ashfari and Khatib Muhammad bin Yahya.
Following the prayers, Jokowi’s presence continued to draw significant attention as more worshippers assembled for photographs and handshakes, prompting security personnel and local police to create a protective corridor to facilitate his departure. Jokowi left the mosque and returned to his residence at Jalan Kutai Utara I in Solo City shortly after 12:55 PM.
Notably, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Operations Director, Sheikh Munajat, had the opportunity for an exchange with Jokowi during the visit. Munajat shared that they discussed upcoming mosque activities, highlighting an anticipated collaboration involving UAE scholars scheduled for next month. “He (Jokowi) appreciated the active and engaging social media presence at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque,” Munajat remarked, reflecting Jokowi’s ongoing interest in community engagement and cultural exchange. The former president inquired about the UAE’s ongoing diplomatic presence, demonstrating a continued interest in fostering international ties.
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque stands as a remarkable example of cultural diplomacy between Indonesia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Gifted by UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the mosque not only serves as a place of worship but has also become a symbol of friendship and mutual respect between the two nations. The mosque’s architectural magnificence and its spiritual ambiance have turned it into a focal point for local communities, as well as for visitors from around the world, thereby enhancing cultural ties and understanding.
Jokowi’s recent visit embodies the former president’s commitment to maintaining strong connections with his constituents after his departure from office. It reflects a transition period, where public figures engage in community life post-public service, emphasizing grassroots relationships that transcend political roles.
Through significant modern engagements and a focus on cultural heritage, Jokowi’s appearance at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque serves not only as a personal milestone but also as a reminder of the essential role that spiritual and communal activities play in the broader narrative of Indonesian society.
His post-presidential journey appears focused on fostering continued dialogue and interaction with the Indonesian community, reinforcing the values of inclusivity and connection that defined his presidency.
As Indonesia navigates its future, such moments of cultural and spiritual significance will undoubtedly play a role in shaping national identity and unity, illustrating the enduring legacy of leaders who remain engaged and accessible long after they leave office.
Tags: #Indonesia #PeopleCultureNews #EconomyNews
