The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has stated that the removal of Mohagher Iqbal as minister of the Ministry of Basic, Higher, and Technical Education in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (Barmm) does not constitute any election violation, as it occurred before the official election period.
Comelec Chairman's Statement
In a recent interview, Comelec Chairman George Garcia clarified that there is no legal issue with Iqbal's dismissal since the election period for the upcoming Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections (BPE) has not yet begun. "We don't have any ban at the moment. None yet. Those bans will still apply during the election period," Garcia explained.
Details of the Dismissal
Iqbal was removed from his position following a decision by interim Barmm Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua. The dismissal has sparked discussions, but Comelec's statement confirms that no electoral rules were breached.
Election Period Timeline
The election period for the BPE is scheduled to run from July 16 to September 29, 2026. During this period, certain restrictions take effect, including a prohibition on the transfer or detail of civil service officers and employees, as well as a ban on the suspension of elective local officials without prior approval from the Commission.
Since Iqbal's removal occurred before July 16, it falls outside the scope of these restrictions, making it permissible under current regulations.
