MILF picks new spokesman in place of rebel leader keen on becoming ARMM OIC

KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, Philippines — The Central Committee of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) has designated a new spokesperson to replace a senior rebel leader who has resigned from the post and then expressed openness to being appointed by President Benigno Aquino III as officer-in-charge of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao government.

Von Al-Haq, chairman of the MILF’s Coordinating Committee on Cessation of Hostilities, replaced Eid Kabalu, who has expressed interest in becoming the head caretaker of ARMM after Aquino signed into law Republic Act No. 10153, which has reset the ARMM elections from August to the second Monday of May 2013 simultaneous with the next national and local elections.

Mohaqher Iqbal, MILF chief negotiator, said Monday that Al Haq’s appointment was signed by Sammy Al-Mansoor, the front’s chief of staff.

In 2010, Al Haq also acted as military spokesperson after Kabalu was suspended for engaging in an election event. Kabalu signed as a witness to a covenant with then presidential aspirant Bro. Eddie Villanueva and all senatorial candidates of the Bangon Pilipinas.

On December 18, 2010, Kabalu was reinstated as spokesperson. Earlier last month, he resigned from his post and publicly expressed his interest in the post of ARMM officer in charge (OIC).

The ARMM OICs will take over when the terms of the incumbent elected governor, vice governor and assemblymen expire. They will sit until shortly after the May 2013 polls when the terms of the next elected officials start.

The President shall appoint the OICs from a list submitted by a screening committee in consultation with the Senate President and the Speaker of the House.