Opposition grows against proposed no-election scenario in Bangsamoro region

Opposition is growing against a proposed "no election" scenario in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). A coalition of 35 civil society organizations is urging Congress to hold regional elections in May 2025, as originally planned. The coalition argues that postponing the elections to 2026 undermines democracy and the Bangsamoro people's right to vote. They emphasize that regional political parties are ready for the elections and that the current appointed leaders lack accountability to the electorate. Concerns have also been raised about a recent Supreme Court ruling affecting Sulu province's representation. Activists assert that the Bangsamoro Transition Authority should handle any necessary redistricting, not Congress, to ensure the elections proceed as scheduled.