Cotabato City — The Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) marked the 29th anniversary of the historic MNLF-GRP-OIC1996 Final Peace Agreement with a grand celebration, underscored by the official launch of the Bangsamoro Party (BAPA) as an electoral participant in the upcoming Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Parliamentary Elections.
The event, held today, brought together MNLF leaders, constituents, and media practitioners from across the nation. In his keynote address, the Chairman of the MNLF called upon the MNLF community and the entire BARMM to “strengthen its ranks” and reignite the fervor and enthusiasm of the Bangsamoro people. He emphasized a new dimension of Jihad—the political struggle—as a pathway to unity and self-governance.
Highlights of the Celebration
- Press Conference with Media Practitioners
The occasion featured a press conference where MNLF leadership engaged with local and national media outfits. Discussions centered on:
- The MNLF’s role in the current political landscape.
- The situation in Sulu and its implications for the region.
- The official launch of BAPA as an electoral organization and its participation in the first-ever BARMM Parliamentary Elections in 2025.
- BAPA’s Proclamation and Nominees
BAPA formally announced its participation in the elections by presenting its slate of Party nominees and District Representative Candidates. The party’s leadership reiterated its commitment to inclusive governance and unity under the principles of “ONE PEOPLE, ONE HOMELAND, and ONE STRONG SELF-GOVERNANCE.”
- BAPA President Muslimin G. Sema expressed confidence in the party’s readiness, stating, “Parang Boy Scout: Laging handa. Isusulong namin na ang lahat kasali sa BAPA.” (Like a Boy Scout: always prepared. We will ensure everyone is included in BAPA.)
- Parliament Deputy Speaker Attorney Omar Yasser C. Sema, BAPA’s first nominee, emphasized the party’s core value of equality, declaring, “With BAPA, everybody is treated as CO-EQUAL.”
- Closing Du’a Prayer
The program concluded with a solemn Du’a prayer, invoking the Almighty Allah’s blessings and guidance for the Bangsamoro people and their pursuit of peace, unity, and self-determination.
Looking Ahead
As the BARMM prepares for its inaugural parliamentary elections, the MNLF and BAPA stand poised to champion the aspirations of the Bangsamoro people. This milestone not only commemorates the 1996 peace accord but also heralds a new chapter in the region’s journey toward sustainable peace and democratic governance.
