MNLF sees rival to split up after disarmament deal

From the Daily Tribune (Jan 22): MNLF sees rival to split up after disarmament deal

The Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) yesterday warned of fragmentation within the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) if and when it signs the normalization annex of the Framework Agreement on Bangsamoro (FAB) which calls for disarmament of MILF fighters.

Absalom Cerveza, spokesman of the MNLF, expressed belief that hardcore MILF fighters would be leaving the group if the normalization annex is signed, apparently in rejection to the disarmament clause.

Cerveza predicted there would be realignment of forces in Mindanao to the benefit of the MNLF and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) of Ustadz Ameril Umbra Kato who broke away from the MILF in 2011.

Kato is tagged as among the hardcore Muslim leaders who are batting for the establishment of an independent Islamic state in Mindanao.

“Eventually, the strength of the MILF will slowly diminish as majority of them would be transferring to the MNLF and BIFF,” said Cerveza.

Cerveza cited the culture and tradition of Muslims of owning firearms as part of their lives.

“I doubt if the MILF fighters will lay down their firearms based on Muslim culture and tradition,” said Cerveza.

The MILF broke away from the MNLF ahead of the signing of the 1996 Final Peace Agreement between the government, then led by President Ramos, and the MNLF chairman Nur Misuari.

The normalization annex is among the last major issue being discussed by the peace panels of the government of the Philippines and the MILF. In fact, the panels have opened the 43rd round of the negotiations in Kuala Lumpur yesterday.

On the table during the ongoing talks are the addendum of the Bangsamoro waters which is part of the recently signed power-sharing annex, and the normalization annex.

In their opening statements, MILF chief negotiator Mohagher Iqbal and GPH panel chair Miriam Coronel-Ferrer expressed optimism of the outcome of the ongoing talks.

http://www.tribune.net.ph/nation/mnlf-sees-rival-to-split-up-after-disarmament-deal