MNLF disowns Sabah attack, hits OPPAP for black props

From the Daily Tribune (Jul 21): MNLF disowns Sabah attack, hits OPPAP for black props

The Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) yesterday branded as “stupendous lie” and propaganda accusation by Malaysian authorities that Nur Misuari was responsible in the latest attack in Semporna, Sabah.

Lawyer Emmanuel Fontanilla, spokesman of the MNLF, said that the MNLF has nothing to do with the attack in Mabul Island, where a police officer was killed and another one was abducted Tuesday last week.

Reports said that the Malaysian Home Ministry tagged Misuari as responsible in the recent “attack, invasion and kidnapping” in the island.

“That’s a very stupendous lie. That’s a blatant propaganda against the MNLF,” Fontanilla said.

The MNLF spokesman stressed that the Misuari-led MNLF will gain nothing in pulling off such act.

“What can we gain in doing that? We are currently focused on winning the hearts and minds of the people of Mindanao, and we are gaining support,” Fontanilla said.

Fontanilla pointed to the government, particularly the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP), as having a hand in the propaganda against the MNLF.

“It’s government special operation overseen by OPAPP. It’s obvious the MNLF is growing stronger, the Christians supporting the group is growing in number,” Fontanilla said.

Malaysian authorities expressed belief that Misuari is trying to regain influence in the southern Philippines and, at the same time, raise funds to revive his military wings.

Fontanilla, however, was quick to counter the allegations made by Malaysians as he questioned their credibility.

“Credibility-wise, it’s hard to believe what Malaysia is saying kasi masyado na silang pre-judice sa MNLF...of the 57 member countries of the Organization of Islamic Conference, only Malaysia is not supporting MNLF,” Fontanilla told The Tribune.

http://www.tribune.net.ph/nation/mnlf-disowns-sabah-attack-hits-oppap-for-black-props