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23September
Photo courtesy Tu Alid Alfonso
MILF declares shift from armed struggle to democratic governance
- Sep 23, 2024
- Taher G. Solaiman
- HITS: 814
Camp Darapanan, Maguindanao del Norte - The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) has announced a major shift in its strategy, transitioning from an armed revolutionary organization to a social movement focused on building a just and democratic society.
This declaration was made by MILF Panel Chairman Mohaqher Iqbal during a massive consultative meeting and general assembly attended by over 300,000 individuals from across the Bangsamoro Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) on September 23rd, 2024.
Iqbal acknowledged the MILF's history of armed struggle, born out of necessity to defend the rights and dignity of the Bangsamoro people. However, he emphasized that the struggle for self-determination, justice, and peace now requires a different approach.
"Our battlefield is no longer in the marshlands but in the institutions of democracy, in Parliament, in the hearts of our people, and in the halls of governance," Iqbal stated.
He highlighted the role of democracy in empowering the Bangsamoro people, holding those in power accountable, and allowing them to participate in shaping their future.
"Our journey as revolutionaries may have taken us through armed struggle, but our future will be determined by the democratic process," Iqbal said.
The MILF will now focus on empowering communities, strengthening civil society, and ensuring an inclusive and representative democratic process.
Iqbal emphasized that this transition does not signify the end of the MILF but rather a transformation. The organization will continue its work, but now as builders of peace, advocates of justice, and champions of democracy.
"Our movement will evolve into something broader and more inclusive, one that encompasses not only former combatants but also students, farmers, businesspeople, and civil society leaders," Iqbal explained.
He called upon all members to embrace this new path with the same vigor and determination they showed on the battlefield, stating, "We are now builders of a new Bangsamoro society. We will bring a new hope."
Iqbal concluded his remarks with a call for unity and a commitment to achieving peace through democratic means.
"Let us march forward! Let us achieve with the strength of our unity and the power of our cause. Let us show the world that the Bangsamoro is not only capable of waging a revolution but also of building a peaceful, just, and democratic society. Our struggle continues! Together, we will win the peace," Iqbal said.
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