21
December 2001
We
are deeply concerned over the deteriorating political and security situation in
the southern Philippines suggesting that the peace agreements worked out with
the help of several governments in the region have not achieved a just and
lasting settlement.
While
we are opposed to violence as a means to seek political and economic solution,
the situation must be viewed in proper perspective.
The
problems of the Muslims in the Philippines, especially in the south, are complex
and longstanding. Economic impoverishment and social marginalization have long
been among the root causes of the political strife in the region. Permanent
peace will be difficult to achieve unless these root causes are sincerely and
effectively addressed.
Nur
Misuari was elected Governor of the Autonomous Region for Muslim Mindanao (ARMM),
but was unable to be effective due to poor administrative and financial support
from the central government and others.
It
is therefore unfair to criticize him alone for the lack of development in a
region which has long been impoverished and neglected. The recent clumsy
attempts by certain quarters to link him with the Abu Sayyaf kidnappings in
Sipadan indicate the dishonesty of such efforts.
We
believe that Nur Misuari still has an important role to play in efforts towards
achieving a just and lasting solution to the Moro question. It is also clear
that the Filipino authorities are playing games with the Malaysian government to
delay, if not avoid taking custody of Nur Misuari.
In
the spirit of Eid and Christmas seasons of greetings and goodwill, we urge the
Malaysian authorities to continue working towards an amicable, just and lasting
solution by involving the Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia and representative
Muslim leaders from the Philippines.
In
the circumstances, if the Malaysian authorities will not favourably consider
Misuari's request for political asylum, we urge the Malaysian government to
allow him to seek and obtain political asylum in a third country, to enable him
to continue working for a peaceful, just and lasting resolution of the issue.
We
also call upon all Muslim groups and organizations in Mindanao to reaffirm their
commitment to peace and to come together to work towards a peaceful and lasting
resolution based on self-determination, social justice and economic upliftment
of the Moro people.
Abdul
Rahman Othman
Deputy President
National Justice Party (keADILan)
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