BARMM Parliament Faces Coalition Talks Amidst Hung Parliament

COTABATO CITY, Philippines – The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) is navigating the complexities of a hung parliament following its historic elections on Monday, September 14. The situation necessitates coalition building to establish a functional government. BARMM Interim Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua acknowledged that forming a coalition with other parties is an "unavoidable situation." He has initiated discussions with the three governors, who are members of the leading Bangsamoro Federalist Party (BFP), to explore coalition possibilities and government formation. The BFP secured a total of 31 seats, making it the largest party in the parliament. Challenging the BFP for dominance is the United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP), led by Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Chairman Ahod “Al Haj Murad” Ebrahim, which garnered 30 seats. Mohagher Iqbal, MILF vice chairman and a Member of Parliament-elect, emphasized the need to "coalesce with parties that are likewise advocating similar platforms of government." To exert greater influence in the Bangsamoro Parliament, both the BFP and UBJP will likely need to forge alliances with the BARMM Grand Coalition (BGC). The BGC comprises the Bangsamoro Peoples Party, Serbisyong Inklusibo-Alyansang Progresibo, and Al-Ittihad-Ungaya sa Kawagib Nu Bangsamoro, and has secured a total of 15 seats. The coalition is headed by Abdulrahman Rubbil Sangki Mangudadatu. Amir Mawallil, a BGC nominee and Member of Parliament-elect, stated that leadership within the coalition has not yet convened to discuss potential alliances with either the BFP or UBJP. Ishak Mastura, a Member of Parliament-elect for Maguindanao del Norte 5th District, suggested that a three-party coalition is also a possibility, depending on the negotiation outcomes. "But right now, it is the BFP as the single biggest party that will have the first opportunity to form a government," Mastura told Rappler. While tensions among supporters of different parties have reportedly diffused following the announcement of results, Mastura noted that "people are still suffering from the pangs of the campaign" due to its intensity. He expressed optimism that "the tension will eventually die down in due time." The Commission on Elections reported a voter turnout exceeding 84%. Authorities have described the elections as generally peaceful and safe, despite isolated incidents of violence in certain areas. The newly elected parliament is set to assume office on October 30, with the primary task of electing the Bangsamoro's chief minister. Securing a majority of at least 41 seats will be crucial for the party aiming to have the most influence in this selection process. Source: Rappler Philippines