by Anthony S. Allada
Former Governor Datu Pax Mangudadatu has expressed confidence that he would be making history by becoming the first regional governor of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) who has no blessings from Malacañang.
All past ARMM governors were the so-called “anointed ones” of the Palace and sure winners in regional elections.
But this time around, Mangudadatu, who claims to gave championed not only the Muslims’ cause but also that of Christians in his province during his incumbency, would change the political landscape in ARMM and vowed to pursue the aspiration of the Bangsamoro people for a lasting peace.
On the other hand, former Rep. Mujiv Hataman, who was appointed ARMM caretaker, was endorsed by Malacañang for regional governor under the Liberal Party (LP) while another candidate, Prof. Nur Misuari, also a former ARMM governor, is again seeking the post he held from 1996-2002.
Even without the blessing of the Palace, Mangudadatu said that there are influential political leaders who are behind his candidacy and this could be big factors for his winnability.
He said he is making the rounds of the five provinces composing the region for consultations with the people and the response has reportedly been overwhelming.
The provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-tawi compose the autonomous region with Maguindanao and Lanao del Sur considered as vote-rich provinces.
Political analysts say there is a good chance of winning if a candidate has bailiwicks in Maguindanao and Lanao del Sur.
Mangudadatu earlier transferred his voter’s registration to Buluan, Maguindanao in preparation for his candidacy and those running for elective posts in the province chose him to be their ARMM gubernatorial aspirant.
He is reported to enjoy the support of both of his nephew, Maguindanao Governor Esmael Mangudadatu, and his political rival, Sultan Kudarat Mayor Tocao Mastura and the rest of mayoral candidates in the province. [Anthony S. Allada]
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