Does ので have the same meaning as のに in this sentence? Judging from the context, it seems to me that in the following sentence means "in order to", similar to , and not "because of". Can this be possible? > Also, I don't get the general meaning of the second part of the sentence, in particular who relates to, the person in question or his followers? Here's my attempt: > He is considered the leader of the extremist faction, but that's not his intention, he has his volunteer followers around simply in order to avoid any inconvenience. Thanks for your help!

still means "because" in this sentence. means "simply because those who follow him of their own will are not inconvenient/bothersome (to him)". The second after is contrastive (i.e., the followers are at least harmless, if not helpful)

"simply in order to avoid inconvenience" would be "()", "()", "()", etc.

modifies and means "on one's own", "without asking/permission", etc.