Worst spoilers in the peace process are still the proponents, says Iqbal

By: Bong Lozada - 10 years ago

MILF panel chairman Mohagher Iqbal (left). PHOTO by Bong Lozada/INQUIRER.net

MANILA,Philippines-With every dotted line signed, peace is now on the table and keeping it is the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front’s newest goal.

In a press conference at the Philippine Daily INQUIRER office Thursday evening, MILF panel chairman Mohagher Iqbal said that the worst spoilers in the Bangsamoro Peace Agreement can be the proponents themselves.

“The worst spoilers in the peace process are still the proponents,” Iqbal said in Filipino. “If the government screws up, they are the worst spoilers, if the MILF screws up, they are the worst spoilers.”

Iqbal, however, toned down saying that any disturbance in the Bangsamoro peace is nearly impossible.

“Our link and coordination with the Philippine government is very good and very strong,” Iqbal said. “We have the suppport, from the media and even from the international community.”

He added that what the MILF and the Philippine government need is to focus on the strengthening and the maintenance of the peace agreement.