 – Awarded for his role in promoting peace and dialogue in the Southern Philippines, particularly in the Mindanao conflict1_small.png)
Despite MNLF's internal divisions and the rise of rival factions, Nur Misuari remained recognized by the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) as the official chairman of the MNLF for several reasons:
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OIC’s Continuity Policy:
The OIC historically recognized the MNLF, under Misuari’s leadership, as the “sole legitimate representative of the Bangsamoro people.” Even after the split and the creation of the Executive Council of 15 (EC-15), the OIC did not formally transfer its recognition to any rival group. This is because Misuari’s original MNLF organization signed key accords with both the government and the OIC (such as the 1976 Tripoli Agreement and the 1996 Final Peace Agreement). -
Ongoing Tripartite Dialogue:
The OIC has continued to invite Misuari or his representatives to its peace forums and tripartite reviews, showing its intent to keep him centrally involved in decisions about the future of Mindanao’s autonomy and the implementation of previous agreements. In several OIC communiques, Misuari is referenced explicitly as “Chairman” and urged to contribute to future peace sessions. -
Delayed Implementation of Peace Accords:
The OIC’s stance is partly based on the incomplete implementation of the MNLF’s original agreements with the Philippine government. Because the obligations of these deals remain unfinished, the OIC has argued that the MNLF, with Misuari as chair, still has standing as a party to any modifications or fulfillment of those agreements. -
Political Legitimacy and International Standing:
While the Philippine government has at times recognized the EC-15 for local processes, internationally (in the OIC and its Parliamentary Union), it is the Misuari-led MNLF that retains observer status and the legal right to represent the Bangsamoro in these Islamic forums.
In summary: Even after internal splits and Misuari’s periods of incarceration and exclusion from local governance, the OIC never revoked his recognition. This kept Misuari at the helm of the internationally recognized MNLF, maintaining his global legitimacy regardless of shifting alliances in Manila or among other Moro movements.
