Manila, Philippines – November 20, 2024
The Governors of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) have issued a joint statement calling for the postponement of the region’s first regular parliamentary elections. They proposed resetting the elections to May 11, 2026, to address critical issues arising from recent legal developments and ensure a fair and inclusive electoral process.
The appeal follows the Supreme Court’s decision to exclude the Province of Sulu from the BARMM, which has raised concerns about the integrity of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) and equitable representation.
Key Points Highlighted by the Governors
1. Upholding the Integrity of the Bangsamoro Organic Law
The BOL stipulates an 80-member parliament, with specific allocations for district representatives based on population and geography. However, under the current conditions, the number of parliamentary members would drop to 73, contravening the law and undermining the parliament’s legitimacy.
2. Ensuring Equitable Representation
The exclusion of Sulu threatens to disenfranchise its residents and disrupt the region’s sociocultural fabric. Resetting the elections would allow for the necessary reconfiguration of electoral districts to ensure all areas within BARMM are adequately represented.
3. Addressing Legal and Administrative Challenges
The Supreme Court’s ruling has introduced legal complexities that require careful resolution. Additionally, the establishment of the Province of Kutawato from the Special Geographic Area necessitates adjustments to the electoral framework. A delayed election would provide the time needed to resolve these issues effectively.
4. Promoting a Credible and Inclusive Electoral Process
The governors emphasized the importance of thorough preparations for BARMM’s inaugural parliamentary elections, including voter education and stakeholder coordination. They argued that the current timeline does not provide sufficient time for these preparations, risking the credibility of the electoral process.
A Call to Congress
The governors urged the Philippine Congress to enact legislation resetting the elections, framing it as an act of justice and a reaffirmation of the government’s commitment to the Bangsamoro peace process.
“This decision is not taken lightly but stems from a commitment to address legal discrepancies, respond to political realities, and ensure the establishment of a truly democratic Bangsamoro government,” the statement read.
The signatories include:
- Jim S. Hataman Salliman, Governor of Basilan
- Mamintal Alonto Adiong, Jr., Governor of Lanao del Sur
- Abdulraof A. Macacua, Governor of Maguindanao del Norte
- Yshmael I. Sali, Governor of Tawi-Tawi
The governors emphasized that resetting the elections would reinforce the region’s progress toward peace and prosperity by creating a robust and inclusive democratic foundation.
The Bangsamoro people and their leaders await Congress’s response to this urgent call.
