EDITORIAL - Momentum of peace

Like the government peace panel, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front lamented the demise of the Bangsamoro Basic Law in the 16th Congress. Doomsayers have warned of intensified violence in Mindanao. So the nation welcomes the announcement of the MILF that it will not stray from the path of peace and will explore a new round of negotiations with the next administration.

The Aquino administration has also vowed to continue exploring peace with the MILF even as it works to improve life in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. Former members of the original separatist group, the Moro National Liberation Front, have joined the ARMM government, the police and military.

With the pause in the peace process with the MILF, the government can review the original 1996 peace treaty with the MNLF, which is recognized by the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, for enhancement of development efforts in the autonomous region.

The MNLF and MILF have the same aspirations for Muslims. Both groups have radical factions or splinter groups that use violence to promote their ideas. Members of both groups who genuinely want peace must work with the government to ensure that violence does not prevail with the death of the BBL.

Maintaining the peace is crucial especially with the approach of the general elections. The right leaders can bring development, create jobs and ease poverty in the conflict zones of Mindanao, making it easier to work for lasting peace. Everyone must help stop the bombing of electric transmission towers. The attacks have worsened the power supply situation and are threatening to disrupt the elections in Mindanao.

Politics can be a positive force for change, but this will not happen if elective posts are won through the barrel of a gun. Voters must be able to choose their candidates freely, wisely, without fear of retribution from any group. Making the Mindanao vote as orderly as possible would be a significant step in sustaining the momentum of peace.