BARMM Chief Minister Ahod “Al Haj Murad” Ebrahim speaks in Tokyo, Japan on Aug. 7, 2024, emphasizing that the May 2025 parliamentary elections will be a crucial test for the region’s democratic reforms, including those outlined in the Bangsamoro Electoral Code. (Photo courtesy of CMCT)
COTABATO CITY—With just less than a year left until the May 2025 parliamentary elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), Chief Minister Ahod “Al Haj Murad” Ebrahim reiterated that the polls will be a “crucial test” for the region’s efforts to strengthen democratic processes.
Speaking during a recent symposium in Tokyo on Aug. 7, commemorating the 10th anniversary of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB), Ebrahim pointed to the Bangsamoro Electoral Code (BEC) as a key element of the reforms that will shape the 2025 elections.
The BEC introduced measures aimed at preventing political dynasties, promoting gender inclusivity, and reserving seats for marginalized sectors in the parliamentary body.
“We see the forthcoming election as more of an opportunity to test the election reforms we have enshrined in the Bangsamoro Electoral Code, such as the anti-political dynasty provision, the nomination of women for parliamentary seats, and the reserved seats for certain sectors of society,” said Ebrahim.
He added, “We see the potential of the election as a tool to further strengthen the social fabric of Bangsamoro.”
Accordingly, such potential will be realized by ensuring the integrity of the elections—through honest, orderly processes—and allowing the Bangsamoro people to peacefully exercise their right to vote, as enshrined under Article V of the 1987 Constitution.
Ebrahim also acknowledged the challenges that lie ahead, including concerns about the legitimacy of vote results, disenfranchisement, and election-related violence, which he described as “very divisive and polarizing.”
However, he expressed confidence that ongoing efforts to ensure a smooth electoral process—including voter education campaigns with the Commission on Elections (COMELEC)—will mitigate these issues.
“I know it is a tall order to get these done, but they can be done,” Ebrahim said.
He also mentioned the ongoing extensive voter education efforts across the region conducted in partnership with the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) and various civil society organizations (CSOs) to ensure a well-informed electorate for the 2025 parliamentary elections.
Voter registration drives, led by the Bangsamoro Information Office (BIO) under the Halalang Bangsamoro campaign, are also underway to ensure that the electorate is fully informed and engaged ahead of the election. (Johamin Inok/BIO)
