The scheduled 2025 parliamentary election in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) is poised to be a historic event, marking the region’s journey towards true self-governance and representation. However, critical challenges rooted in political dynamics and electoral practices have raised serious concerns that the intended democratic process may fail to achieve its transformative potential, perpetuating the cycle of poverty, underdevelopment, and unrest in the region.

It is widely observed that, in areas under BARMM jurisdiction, the political landscape remains heavily influenced by entrenched dynasties who leverage substantial financial power to consolidate their hold on power. These dynastic politicians often rely not on personal resources but on wealth accrued from government-funded projects, such as flood control systems and road infrastructures, which are overseen by their private companies or affiliates. This concentration of wealth and power has enabled a few families to establish a near-feudal control over their constituents, who are left with little alternative but to depend on these power-brokers. As a result, a significant portion of the electorate does not have the opportunity or freedom to recognize or support alternative candidates—such as intellectuals, reformists, and religious leaders—who seek genuine development and prosperity for the Bangsamoro people.

For decades, these dynasties have accumulated enormous wealth and influence, establishing themselves as billionaires and tycoons while their communities remain among the poorest and most underdeveloped in the country. Such a system risks transforming the BARMM parliamentary elections into little more than an exchange of financial favors, wherein those with the most financial resources secure office at the expense of true representation and reform. This, in turn, perpetuates the cycle of dependence and disenfranchisement for the region’s people, hindering the genuine development that BARMM aims to achieve.

The broader consequences of an election that is dominated by dynastic interests cannot be understated. With peace hanging in the balance, an election that prioritizes wealth and influence over merit and integrity risks destabilizing the region. If this political climate is allowed to persist, it is feared that young people—especially those graduating from Madaris and looking for opportunities within a fair and just society—will feel alienated and disillusioned. Unemployment rates will likely remain high, exacerbating frustration and increasing the potential for unrest.

In light of these realities, a postponement of BARMM’s 2025 parliamentary election is urged, until such time that effective safeguards can be established to ensure that the electoral process is free from the pervasive influence of money politics. A delay in the election would provide an opportunity to institute reforms aimed at strengthening the integrity of BARMM’s political landscape, enabling the Bangsamoro people to elect leaders who embody true public service and are committed to the welfare and development of the region.

The BARMM government and its partners in the national government are called upon to take immediate and strategic actions to protect this vision of a democratic and prosperous Bangsamoro, free from the constraints of dynastic control and economic disenfranchisement. Together, we must work towards an environment where elections are a pathway to positive change and where the region’s abundant potential can finally be realized for the benefit of all.