MILF welcomes Misuari, BIFF in Bangsamoro law deliberations

From ABS-CBN (Aug 9): MILF welcomes Misuari, BIFF in Bangsamoro law deliberations

The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) welcomes the idea of Cagayan de Oro City Representative Rufus Rodriguez to include Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) founder Nur Misuari and the leader of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in the congressional deliberations on the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law.

MILF First Vice Chairman Ghazali Jaafar told ABS-CBN Cotabato that as long as the reason of the Congress for inviting these personalities is for a good cause, there is no problem in doing such.

However, Jaafar thinks this may not be possible as Misuari is being hunted by the government over last year's Zamboanga siege.

BIFF leader Ustadz Ameril Umbra Kato is also a fugitive facing warrants of arrest.

"I don't know if Congress can issue immunity pero depende na ito sa layunin ng Congress kung bakit gusto nilang kausapin ang mga personalities na ito. But as a rule, Congress can invite anybody," Jaafar said.

Meanwhile, a peace advocate and a member of the Consoritum of the Bangsamoro Civil Society in Cotabato City said it will only cause delay in Congress.

Abdulbasit Benito said although the road towards Bangsamoro is inclusive, prior to the submission of the BBL to the Office of the President, a series of consultations were already done may it be with the MNLF, its communities and even the BIFF.

"This will further delay dun sa plenary. Paano kung opposed sila dito mas lalong ma-delay," Benito said.

According to Jaafar, Rodriguez could be the chairman of the special committee that Congress will create in the discussion of the BBL when it reaches the House of Representatives hopefully this month.

The MILF is confident on his expertise as he is a Mindanaoan and is knowledgeable on the Bangsamoro situation.

Jaafar once told ABS-CBN that he is talking with some congressmen and senators to further explain the cause of the Bangsamoro. He had also met with Rodriguez in a informal meeting.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/08/09/14/milf-welcomes-misuari-biff-bangsamoro-law-deliberations