Misuari’s 2013 Zambo siege case still suspended, says Roque

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 6): Misuari’s 2013 Zambo siege case still suspended, says Roque

The case against Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) chairman Nur Misuari for his alleged involvement in the 2013 Zamboanga siege is still suspended indefinitely.

During his first press briefing in Zamboanga City, Presidential Spokesperson Atty. Harry Roque clarified that the case versus Professor Misuari is not dismissed, but merely suspended, while peace talks between the Government and the MNLF are still ongoing.

“The DOJ has created a special task force that handles this specific case for violation of international humanitarian law in connection to the Zamboanga siege,” Atty. Roque said. He did not elaborate if there is a timeline for the case to progress.

Meanwhile, Atty. Roque emphasized that President Duterte is pushing for a more inclusive Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) this time. The original BBL which was drafted during the previous administration excluded the MNLF especially in the consultations. This exclusion, some analysts think, could have very well been one of the triggers for the Zamboanga siege.

“President Duterte,” Atty Roque said, “believes that an inclusive BBL, where MNLF is made part of the consultation process, is a means to achieving lasting peace in Mindanao.”

However, the presidential spokesperson clarified that areas who do not wish to be part of the Bangsamoro will not be compelled. “The President respects Davao’s and Zamboanga’s decision not to be part of the BBL,” he said.

http://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1002896