Comelec chief Abas pledges to inhibit himself from BBL plebiscite

Commission on Elections (Comelec) chair Sheriff Abas on Wednesday vowed to inhibit himself should there be a plebiscite for ratification of proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL).

If Congress would pass the proposed measure that would create the Bangsamoro region, the Comelec would conduct a plebiscite in the affected area.

Abas made the statement as a response to Senator Risa Hontiveros’ questioning during the Committee on Appointment hearing for his confirmation as Comelec chief.

“On BBL, citing my relation with my uncle, I will be totally hands off,” said Abas, who happens to be the nephew of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) chief negotiator Mohagher Iqbal.

Abas said he would delegate the conduct of the plebiscite to his colleagues at Comelec.

If confirmed, Abas will be the first Muslim Comelec chairman.

Meanwhile, Majority Floor Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri lauded Abas’s resolve to inhibit himself, pointing out that “delicadeza” is rare trait in the government these days.

President Rodrigo Duterte has urged the Congress to pass the BBL before May 30.

On Monday, the Senate has asked the President to certify as urgent the proposed measure.

Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said the President would certify the bill as urgent “anytime soon.” /vvp