The Bangsamoro Human Rights Commission (BHRC) strongly condemns the incident that happened during the filing of Certificate of Candidacy (COC) for the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) 2023 in Malabang, Lanao Del Sur.

The incident is deeply concerning, as it not only disrupted the democratic process but also jeopardized the fundamental rights of the people. It endangered the lives of the innocent people and undermined the very principles upon which a just and representative government is built. The right to vote and be voted for, free from fear and violence, is the cornerstone of democratic governance towards political stability and social harmony in the Region.

A peaceful BSKE plays a significant role in determining and choosing the barangay officials who will govern and make decisions that directly impact communities. These officials have a very critical role in nation-building, poverty alleviation, local development, delivery of basic social services and a host of many other functions that aim to provide local solutions to national problems.

As the independent human rights institution of the Bangsamoro, the BHRC expresses its concern over this incident which tend to impair and compromise the integrity of the election. We call upon the authorities, including political leaders and security forces, to diligently monitor this election to ensure that the fundamental rights of the people are upheld and protected.

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