|
Monday, December 24, 2007
Clan war feared in Maguindanao
By Edgardo Fuerzas
Sun.Star Superbalita
PAGALUNGAN, Maguindanao - Authorities are bracing for a possible clan war between two landed political families and their followers once the Commission on Elections (Comelec) installs the elected mayor of the town.
The Comelec's second division is set to install Norodin Matalam as mayor of Pagalungan instead of incumbent Otto Montawal.
Post your comments here on the Makati siege
The second division in its ruling said a recount on the votes cast in the last May elections showed Matalam was the winner instead of Mayor Montawal.
Montawal intends to question the Comelec's decision before the court.
Authorities are taking extra measure with the political development since past incidents involving the two families result to violent clashes.
Troops have already been deployed in Pagalungan town, considered the bailiwick of the Matalams, and neighboring Datu Montawal town, which the Montawals lord over.
Just last Tuesday, an M79 grenade landed near Matalam's residence, injuring five of Matalam's men.
Autonomous Region for Muslim Mindanao Police Regional Director Joel Goltiao appealed to both clans to respect the decision of the Comelec, adding that if the Montawals doubt Comelec's decision then they should appeal this at the proper venue and not use violence to win their case.
Goltiao said he will not allow the two clans to resort to violent means and get away with it. (Sun.Star Davao Superbalita/Sunnex)
For more Philippine news, visit Sun.Star Manila. (December 24, 2007 issue)
Write letter to the editor. Click here.
Join the Sun.Star message board. Click here. |
|
|
|
[return to top]
[home]
|
|
Australia warns of terror attacks during Christmas