Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) chair Ahod ‘Al Haj Murad’ Ebrahim became visibly emotional during the speech of MILF commander Abdullah ‘Commander Bravo’ Macapaar.
The moment took place at the MILF-Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF) general assembly in Camp Darapanan, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao del Norte on Thursday, Sept. 3.
In his speech, Macapaar reaffirmed his loyalty to Ebrahim and the MILF leadership in the face of internal tension that created divisions within their ranks.
Macapaar, a member of Bangsamoro Transition Authority, emphasized unity and loyalty to the MILF leadership and their principles, including the transition from armed struggle to peaceful political and democratic means.
‘My loyalty to our Ameer (commander), Kagi Murad, is non-negotiable. My loyalty to the MILF is forever,’ Macapaar said in Maranao language translated for the Inquirer by an MILF official.
While Macapaar was speaking, Ebrahim was seen shedding tears along with other MILF officials on stage.
Macapaar recalled how they fought together government forces in Lanao del Sur and Maguindanao to defend their camps and their desire for Moro self-rule.
He narrated about ultimate sacrifices of muhajideen (fighters) and comrades being killed by bullets from government forces right before his eyes.
In August 2008, following the botched signing of the Memorandum of Agreement on Ancestral Domain (MOA-AD) between the government and the MILF, Bravo led MILF forces in attacking coastal villages in Kauswagan and Kolambugan towns in Lanao del Norte