Joint Press Statement of the GPH and MILF Peace Panels on the violence in Zamboanga City.
10 September 2013
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
The Government of the Republic of the Philippines and Moro Islamic Liberation Front Peace Negotiating Panels condemn in the strongest terms the violence concurrently being inflicted in Zamboanga City by elements of the Moro National Liberation Front under Mr. Nur Misuari. The perpetrators must be stopped and held accountable for their acts.
Those behind the continued acts of violence in Mindanao do not want the current peace process between the Government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front to succeed. Their actions intend to derail the process using violence and disinformation to spread fear and chaos in Mindanao.
The Parties remain committed to pursuing the peace process to its just and rightful conclusion, in the belief that it is through partnership that institutions reflective of the true needs and aspirations of the Bangsamoro and other peoples of Mindanao shall be installed.
The Government will abide by its past commitments. The MILF, for its part, encourages their Moro brothers and sisters in the MNLF to work together so that the Moro struggle will benefit all. Both Government and the MILF agree to ensure continuity of the peaceful option so that the peoples of Mindanao can live in unity and prosperity.
The Parties extend their heartfelt sympathy to and solidarity with the people of Zamboanga City and other areas affected by such violence.
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