Misuari calls on Muslims to eschew terrorism

Nur Misuari, a former Muslim leader, called on members of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) to reject terrorism, adding that all MNLF units must help Philippine authorities to reject plans of other groups to launch attacks in Metro Manila.

In a one-page letter issued from Fort Sto. Domingo in Sta. Rosa, Laguna where he is detained, Misuari said, "Terrorist bombing in Madrid or Metro Manila is despicable and unforgivable even in Islamic doctrine."

"Muslims should not be deluded into embracing terrorism as a weapon for redressing historical grievances and acts of injustice against the Bangsamoro people," said Misuari.

"Bombing is not justified whatsoever by the historical wrongs suffered by the Bangsamoro people. Never can it be a weapon in the Muslim struggle for social justice-and economic parity with Christian communities," said Misuari.

Misuari said that Filipino Muslims must stop giving aid in any form to members of the Abu Sayyaf group. "It is my moral duty to make this appeal," said Misuari.

Philippine authorities said the recent arrest of Abu Sayyaf members helped thwart a "Madrid-type bomb attack directed at high-impact targets" in Metro Manila and key cities in the Visayas, in central Philippines, and in Mindanao in the south.

Misuari said he also asked assistance from House Speaker Jose de Venecia and national security adviser Norberto Gonzalez in making his stand known.

Misuari asked the two to distribute his statement of concern, saying it must be known by all that he is a peace loving man. Misuari said he remained pro-peace since he forged a pro-autonomy peace settlement with the government in 1996.