MILF files registration and accreditation as regional political party

MANILA, May 8 (PNA) -- The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) has officially confirmed its intention to join the May 2016 elections after applying for registration and accreditation as a regional political party before the Commission on Elections (Comelec).Based on the petition signed by Yasser Ebrahim, president of the United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP) of the MILF, they want to legitimize the cause of the Bangsamoro people and recognize the democratic process by registering with the poll body. The creation of a political party would allow the Bangsamoro to participate in a democratic and peaceful process to advance their legitimate causes,” according to the petition filed last May 6, two days before the deadline.The group noted how political participation is crucial to the progress of the Bangsamoro and the country. Political exclusion has been one of the causes of the Mindanao conflict that stymied the progress and development, not only of the Bangsamoro but also of the Philippines,” it added.On the other hand, the poll body welcomed the MILF’s petition. I think that one of the things that is very obvious here is this is actually an effort to go mainstream in keeping with their stated policy of bullets to ballots,” said Comelec Spokesman Jimenez.The Omnibus Election Code states that any organized group of persons seeking registration as a national or regional political party may file with the Commission a verified petition attaching its constitution and by-laws, platform or program of government and such other relevant information as may be required by the Commission.”While the Batas Pambansa 881 states, no religious sect or a political party that seeks to achieve its goal through violence shall be entitled to accreditation as a political party”. (PNA)FPV/FGP/RSM