NEWS
28March
UBJP demands no more delays to BARMM polls
- Mar 28, 2026
- Taher G. Solaiman
- HITS: 841
In a statement titled “Let Election Proceed with Finality and Stop New Delays and Postponement. Allow the Moro People to Choose their Own Leaders in the BARMM,” the party welcomed the law with cautious optimism, noting it marks the fourth postponement of the historic election meant to install a democratically elected regular government in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
The initial election was scheduled for May 2022, then moved to May 12, 2025, reset to October 13, 2025, and later shifted to March 30, 2026, before the latest adjustment to September 2026.
“The fourth schedule brings about mixed feelings among the Bangsamoro people — excitement, a sense of relief, cynicism, uncertainty and the fear that postponement may happen again,” the UBJP said.
“We cannot blame the cynicism and high level of distrust as it stems from repeated episodes of disenfranchisement that squandered precious time and limited resources of voters and candidates alike,” the UBJP added.
Despite these concerns, the party reaffirmed its commitment to the electoral process and to submitting to the will of the people. It vowed to engage with voters to highlight the importance of their participation in the historic exercise, while building support for the UBJP and its candidates.
Describing the polls as more than just an election, the UBJP said it marks the end of a seven-year transition period under the peace agreement.
“We view this election as a continuation of our jihad; although this stage of our struggle is now being pursued through peaceful means,” the party stated.
UBJP emphasized it aims to show the national government and international community that the Bangsamoro people — who have resisted centuries of colonization and armed conflict — “will never compromise our rights, dignity, distinct identity and Islamic values for short term gain.”
Stressing that unity is more than just part of the party’s name, UBJP called on members, supporters, and sympathizers to close ranks, reject efforts to create division, and protect their shared goals. “UBJP is open to everyone who shares our vision of moral governance, social justice and genuine political reform in our Bangsamoro homeland,” the party added.
The UBJP also called on authorities to recognize the election as a key expression of the Bangsamoro people’s right to self-determination.
“The Bangsamoro people must be given the opportunity to choose their own leaders free from manipulation, division and patronage politics that frustrate the true will of the people,” the statement read.
“In the interest of preserving peace and upholding the integrity of the peace agreement, let there be a clean, honest, free and credible election in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region without delay, without compromise, and without any further postponement,” the UBJP further said.
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