9/30/2024 Philippines (International Christian Concern) — The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) held a consultative meeting and general assembly on Sept. 23 under the theme, “Democracy is the Next Path: Our Transformation from Armed Revolutionary Organization to a Social Movement,” marking a key moment in the group’s transition to democratic participation ahead of the 2025 Bangsamoro Parliament elections.
The assembly, which gathered MILF leaders, members, and key stakeholders, focused on the organization’s shift from armed struggle to political engagement, seeking to strengthen its influence through democratic processes. As the 2025 elections approach, the MILF is positioning itself as a major political force in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
MILF Panel Chair Mohagher Iqbal delivered a pivotal speech during the assembly, emphasizing the group’s new path.
“Democracy is the next path of our struggle,” Iqbal said. “Our strength lies in our unity and our ability to adapt to the challenges of each era. We are now builders of peace, advocates of justice, and champions of democracy.” His remarks underscored the MILF’s dedication to governance and electoral participation as a means of advancing the cause for which they have fought for decades.
Chairman Murad Ebrahim, the current Chief Minister of BARMM, echoed these sentiments, stressing that the MILF’s shift from revolutionary arms to democratic governance is a critical step for the group.
“We have chosen the democratic process as our future,” Ebrahim said. “Our struggle continues through governance and representation, guided by Islamic values of justice and equality.”
The assembly also addressed the religious dimension of the MILF’s transformation, with leaders emphasizing that their commitment to Islamic values remains central to their governance strategy. While embracing democratic principles, the MILF reassured participants that they would continue to promote justice and peace in accordance with their religious beliefs.
The discussions and outcomes of the assembly are expected to have a significant influence on the 2025 Bangsamoro parliamentary elections as the MILF prepares to mobilize support across the region. The group’s transformation into a social and political movement is seen as an effort to maintain unity and build a peaceful, just, and democratic future for the Bangsamoro people.
The MILF’s shift toward democratic governance is also seen as a pivotal moment for Christian-Muslim relations in the Philippines. As the group embraces peaceful governance and social development, some Christian communities are cautiously optimistic that Mindanao’s political and religious landscape could foster greater collaboration.
However, concerns remain about how these changes may affect interfaith dialogue, with Christian leaders closely watching to ensure that democratic values are upheld in a way that respects the diverse religious beliefs of the region. The MILF has reassured that its governance will be inclusive, drawing from Islamic values that promote justice, equality, and peace, while respecting the rights of non-Muslim communities.
Additionally, the MILF’s transition has raised questions about its influence on Indigenous People groups living within the BARMM. These groups, some of whom have historically felt marginalized by both Muslim and Christian leadership, now find themselves navigating a new political landscape. Indigenous leaders are hopeful that the MILF’s commitment to inclusivity will translate into greater representation and respect for their ancestral lands and cultural rights. The assembly acknowledged the need to integrate Indigenous Peoples into the democratic processes, ensuring their voices are heard in shaping the region’s future.
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