The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) questioned Sunday the appointment of Abdulraof Macacua as Interim Chief Minister of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
The MILF through its Central Committee relayed this message in an official statement, detailing its concerns over recent leadership changes within the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA).
They noted growing frustrations among stakeholders regarding presidential appointments to the BTA.
The MILF said only 35 out of the 41 nominees it endorsed were appointed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., raising concerns about adherence to the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) and the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB).
“With only 35 nominees appointed, the MILF’s leadership hangs in the balance, raising serious concerns about the integrity of the transition period and the commitment of the parties to the peace agreement,” the statement read.
The MILF said these developments could impact the autonomy of the Bangsamoro government and the transition process.
It further noted dissatisfaction over the appointment of Macacua as new Interim Chief Minister, stating that the decision was made despite previous resolutions supporting the current leader.
“It is for the best interest of all that the leadership of the MILF is consulted and its decisions be respected on matters of paramount importance to the Bangsamoro,” the committee said.
“The implementation of the peace agreement lies in the symbiotic partnership between the MILF and the National Government—a relationship built on trust, mutual respect, and strict adherence to both the spirit and the letters of the signed agreements,” it added.
Despite these concerns, the MILF underscored the importance of unity and urged all stakeholders to avoid divisive actions that could hinder the peace process.
The statement concluded with a reaffirmation of support for MILF Chairman Al Haj Murad Ebrahim and the organization’s leadership.