Dynasties, elites, and parties vie for power in BARMM elections

More than two million Filipinos in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) are set to cast their votes on Monday, September 14, in the region's first parliamentary elections. This momentous event marks a crucial step in the region's journey towards self-governance and addressing its history of neglect and underdevelopment. The Bangsamoro people will choose leaders from a pool of candidates that includes scions of powerful political dynasties and former combatants loyal to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF). Their decision will be influenced by the region's memory of the Moro struggle, compounded by trauma from rido (clan feuds), poverty, and the persistent threat of insurgency. Thirteen regional political parties and nearly 700 candidates are vying for seats in the Bangsamoro Parliament. While this broad political participation could offer voters more choices, watchdog groups like the Asian Network for Free Elections have raised concerns that heightened tensions between parties, exacerbated by clan and dynastic politics, could jeopardize peace and security during the election period. Key electoral battles are unfolding across the region. In Lanao del Sur, over two dozen members of political dynasties, Islamic scholars, lawmakers, and youth leaders are competing for nine parliamentary seats. The outcome in Maguindanao del Norte is particularly critical, as it could determine whether interim Chief Minister Abdulraof "Sammy Gambar" Macacua retains his leadership position. Maguindanao del Sur sees relatives of prominent clans like the Midtimbang, Ampatuan, Upam, and Mangudadatu vying for power. In Basilan, the Hataman family aims to secure two of the province's four parliamentary seats. Tawi-Tawi's races feature candidates with ties to over half of its local political clans. Cotabato City, the regional center, is witnessing a competitive race among seasoned public officials, educators, and candidates linked to political dynasties. Additionally, in the Bangsamoro Special Geographic Area (SGA), the son of a former interim chief minister is among those campaigning for parliamentary seats. These elections are pivotal in shaping BARMM's future, as the electorate navigates the legacy of past conflicts and places their hopes on new leadership.