The Power Struggle in Bangsamoro: Legitimacy, Loyalty, and Unity

On August 21, 2025, the MILF Central Committee reaffirmed its loyalty to Chairman Al Haj Murad Ebrahim, emphasizing its authority and discipline. The absence of BIAF Chief of Staff and current BARMM Interim Chief Minister Abdulraof “Sammy Gambar” Macacua raises concerns about his standing and influence, suggesting a possible disconnect or sidelining. The visible support for MILF Chairman Murad and the core leaders underscores their legitimacy, while Macacua’s absence hints at diminished authority (Allah forbids). This division threatens the unity and legitimacy of Bangsamoro governance, highlighting the urgent need for reconciliation and clarity. Without cohesive leadership rooted in the revolutionary struggle and community trust, the region risks further instability and manipulation by political forces.

Unity remains essential for genuine sovereignty and peace. The ongoing divide, fueled by political maneuvering and silence, undermines the foundation of self-determination and risks estranging BARMM from its revolutionary roots. The Bangsamoro people deserve transparent, accountable leadership , unity and legitimacy must be restored to ensure a stable, self-reliant future.

The current division among Bangsamoro leaders exemplifies ‘divide and rule’ tactics often employed by external forces and the central government. By sowing discord and fostering internal rivalries, these forces aim to weaken the unity of the Bangsamoro movement, making it easier to manipulate political outcomes and suppress genuine aspirations for self-rule. Such tactics exploit fractures, deepen suspicion, and create distrust among leaders and communities. This strategy not only destabilizes the region but also undermines the collective pursuit of autonomy and sovereignty.

As Bangsamoro leaders and their people face external pressures to divide, it is crucial to recognize these manipulations and respond with solidarity, unity, and steadfastness. Our strength lies in shared history, struggles, and aspirations for a just, autonomous Bangsamoro. We must resist both external and internal divisions that threaten our journey toward lasting peace and self-determination.

The warning is clear: succumbing to divide and rule tactics benefits those who wish to keep Bangsamoro weak and divided. Instead, let us reaffirm our commitment to unity and collective action, safeguarding our homeland from manipulative forces and ensuring a future in which the Bangsamoro people control their destiny.

History shows that external influences and some local elites have exploited internal divisions to expand their influence, often at the expense of genuine Bangsamoro sovereignty. Therefore, it is imperative for leaders, elders, and citizens to remain vigilant, discerning manipulative tactics, and resisting efforts to fracture our collective identity. True strength resides in embracing our shared heritage, cultural unity, and common aspirations for peace, development, and self-governance.

We must foster open dialogue, transparency, and inclusive decision-making that reflect the voices of all the Bangsamoro community. Building a resilient and united front is essential to counteract divisive tactics and to promote genuine progress toward autonomy and development. It is through unity that we can break free from the cycle of external interference and internal discord, ensuring that our cause remains strong and unwavering.

As we move forward, let us remember that our collective destiny depends on our ability to stand united against those who seek to divide us for their own benefit. We must invest in strengthening our cultural identity, fostering mutual respect, and nurturing leadership that advocates for the true interests of the Bangsamoro people. Only then can we secure a peaceful, autonomous, and prosperous future for generations to come.

The path to genuine self-rule may be challenging, but with steadfast solidarity and unwavering resolve, the Bangsamoro community can overcome any barriers. We must remain vigilant, cautious of deceit, and committed to our shared goals. Our history of resilience and struggle teaches us that unity is our greatest strength, and it is by standing together that we will succeed in achieving the justice and sovereignty we long deserve. Allah knows best. (Note: This article is shared by BMN/BangsamoroToday with the author’s permission, Abdullah P. Salik, Jr.)