A Muslim lawyer and head of a political party in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao has urged the government to hold the region's first-ever parliamentary elections next year as scheduled in accordance with the law.
Meanwhile, political observers claimed that extending the historic BARMM parliamentary elections might exacerbate reported claims of rampant corruption among the powerful group responsible of overseeing BARMM's successful establishment.
"This is clearly stipulated in the BARMM law – the first-ever BARMM parliamentary elections must be held on May 12, 2025," said Moro Ako party president lawyer Najeeb Taib.
"The law does not allow any postponement or delay of the scheduled election. We fully support holding the elections next year to bring true democracy to BARMM," he added.
Taib noted that the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) was given six years to complete the transition from the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao to BARMM and that this timeline is now due.
"The Bangsamoro people have professionals across sectors who are capable of governing, if given the opportunity," he added.
The Moro Ako party, which has already submitted its Certificates of Candidacy (COCs) for the May 2025 elections, is fielding 27 candidates, led by Taib.
These nominees are vying for seats in the region's inaugural parliamentary elections.
Although the Moro Ako party is primarily based in Lanao del Sur, it has ensured broad regional representation, with 14 of its 27 candidates hailing from various provinces within BARMM. This strategic inclusivity reflects the party’s commitment to giving voice to all sectors of the region, ensuring that no area is left behind in the transition to a fully elected parliament.
The party has also made gender balance a priority, with a significant number of female candidates among its nominees. This aligns with the BARMM Electoral Code, which mandates that at least 30 percent of a party’s nominees be women.
By prioritizing gender inclusivity, the Moro Ako party is setting an important precedent for more equitable representation in the new parliament.
The filing of candidacies comes as 16 regional political parties are competing for 80 seats in the BARMM parliament. The 2025 elections are a critical milestone in the region’s development, marking the shift from a transitional government to a fully elected parliamentary system, which will shape the future governance of BARMM.
This historic election will be a pivotal moment in the region’s political future, as the people of BARMM take the next step in determining their autonomy and governance.