MILF says Misuari group hit by defections
AT least 300 members of the Moro National Liberation Front have joined the Moro Islamic Liberation Front in Sulu, according to the MILF which is negotiating a peace agreement with government.
The military is validating the information, according to Western Mindanao Command chief Maj. Gen. Noel Coballes who also said MILF’s website, which announced the defection, contains MILF propaganda.
The MNLF in Sulu is under the overall command of Nur Misuari who was dislodged as chair the mainstream MNLF years ago. The MNLF signed a peace accord with the government in 1996.
The MILF has presence in other provinces including Basilan, Lanao and Sarangani.
"During their meeting with the MILF officers, the MNLF forces said they opted to join the MILF because the MNLF under Misuari is no longer capable to continue the Bangsamoro struggle for freedom and self-determination," the MILF said in its website.
It said a first batch of 120 MNLF men joined the MILF’s Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces following a meeting on January 4 in Talipao town, a stronghold of the MNLF in Sulu.
The group was led by commanders Mahad Maharail and Abdul Sajili, who were formerly under the command of MNLF political officer Abuhambri Taddik, the MILF said.
The second group composed of 193 MNLF members joined the MILF on January 16 after another meeting in Talipao. It was formerly under MNLF commander Habier Malik whose group operates in Luuk town.
Malik is known to be a loyal follower of Nur Misuari. His group operated with Abu Sayyaf bandits in Sulu and has been linked to a number of atrocities in the province.
In February 2007, Malik and his men held hostage now retired Lt. Gen. Ben Dolorfino, then commander of the AFP Western Mindanao Command, and a number of his men following a dialogue with MNLF rebels in their camp.
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