Former Muslim rebels lead results in first election held in southern Philippine region

MANILA, Philippines (AP) — Candidates associated with former Muslim rebels appeared to be leading the inaugural elections in the predominantly Muslim southern Philippines region, according to official results released on Wednesday. The election marked a significant step towards self-rule in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, which had been plagued by violent uprisings for decades until a 2014 peace deal that saw Muslim rebels disarm in exchange for autonomy.

The Bangsamoro Federalist Party, headed by the region's transitional Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua, secured the most votes in the party list elections, garnering nearly 36% and winning 16 out of the 80 seats in the regional parliament. They were followed by the United Bangsamoro Justice Party, led by former Interim Chief Minister Ahod "Al Haj Murad" Ebrahim, who received over 32% and 15 seats.

All 80 seats in the regional parliament were up for grabs in the first elections, with a simple majority of 41 votes required to form a government. The region, spanning five provinces, three cities and 63 villages, was created out of a 2014 peace deal that ended decades of conflict and promised demobilization and support for the former rebels.

Chairman Erwin Garcia of the Commission on Elections reported a voter turnout of 84% among nearly 2.4 million voters. The Bangsamoro Federalist Party's strong showing suggests a shift in political dynamics in the region, as none of the parties secured a majority and the formation of a government now hinges on coalition building.