The Philippine government and Moro rebels Perform Negotiations
MANILA - The Philippine government and Muslim rebels plan to re-start negotiations in the coming months. But it is unclear how the two parties can settle disputes that occurred during this mediated by Malaysia.
The Philippine government itself wants Malaysian official Othman Abdul Razak, who led mediation both sides during the last seven years. Meanwhile, the Moro Liberation Front (MILF) wants to continue working with Othman Abdul Razak.
Philippine negotiators Marvic Leonine declared after meeting with Malaysia in Kuala Lumpur, Thursday Jan. 13, party feel satisfied With the ever-resolution of the issue released by the mediator Malaysia. Leonine optimistic that continued negotiations would take place on 9 to 10 February.
"The Philippine government welcomes the solution issued by the Government of Malaysia, in particular regarding the continuation of negotiations (with the MILF)," said Marvic Leonine quoted as saying by the Associated Press on Friday (14/01/2011).
"If the Malaysian government decided to replace it (Othman Abdul Razak), that's their decision we can not intervening," MILF spokesman Eid Kabalu.
The Philippine government earlier requested Malaysia to facilitate peace talks with the MILF. This was done considering the amount of influence on the Moro Malaysia. Malaysia alone have shown more concern for peace and stability in Southern Philippines.
Formal peace talks failed to take place in 2008 after the Philippine Supreme Court rejected the government's decision at that time led by former Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. Arroyo then asked for a comprehensive autonomy in Southern Philippines.