Political Violence Marks Philippine Elections: Risks and Challenges Ahead
The Philippines election commission reported 46 acts of political violence, including attacks on candidates as mid-term elections approach. Though fewer than 20 candidates have been killed, analysts warn that political violence remains a significant concern due to the high stakes of local offices and weakened law enforcement in rural areas. Despite enhanced security measures, cultural factors contribute to ongoing issues with violence in politics.
The upcoming mid-term elections in the Philippines have escalated concerns about political violence, with the Elections Commission (Comelec) documenting 46 violent incidents this year alone. Notably, mayoral candidate Kerwin Espinosa survived an assassination attempt during a rally, highlighting the extreme risks candidates face. To date, Comelec reports that fewer than 20 candidates have been killed this campaign season, a decrease from the significant number of fatalities in previous elections.
Political analysts indicate that the high stakes associated with local offices drive violence, as such positions afford control over jobs, police, and national tax disbursements. According to Danilo Reyes, a political science professor at the University of the Philippines, local leaders wield considerable power in decision-making, which can lead to violent conflicts. The problem is exacerbated by weakened rule of law outside the capital, enabling regional strongmen and armed groups to operate with impunity.
Cleve Arguelles of WR Numero Research notes that local elites often maintain patronage networks that bolster their influence and control. Violence is particularly prevalent in areas dominated by single families or where private armed groups are involved. Reyes emphasizes that, in regions lacking robust institutions, confrontational violence frequently becomes the resolution of disputes.
The targeting of candidates has drawn attention to ongoing challenges in handling political violence. For example, Espinosa was shot during a campaign event, and investigations are underway, including scrutiny of several police officers. Despite this, the conviction rates for perpetrators remain alarmingly low, with data indicating that a significant percentage of violent acts go unpunished.
The intertwined relationship between national and local political dynamics complicates the issue, as national leaders depend on local allies for electoral support. They often refrain from pursuing serious investigations into violence affecting local representatives for fear of political repercussions. Violence in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao remains particularly problematic, with Comelec recently assuming control over certain municipalities following violent incidents.
In response to these challenges, Comelec has taken steps to enhance election security and monitor local enforcement. Nevertheless, entrenched family ties and rivalries continue to create an environment ripe for conflict. Despite a promise of improvement in governance, the cultural aspects of Filipino society—often characterized by familial allegiance—pose significant obstacles to achieving a more peaceful electoral process.
In conclusion, the Philippines faces ongoing challenges related to political violence as it approaches the mid-term elections. With Comelec documenting numerous violent acts and fewer candidates killed compared to previous years, the situation highlights the risks inherent in local politics. Efforts to improve election security are ongoing, yet deep-rooted cultural and structural issues continue to fuel confrontational violence. Understanding and addressing these dynamics is critical to fostering a safer electoral environment in the Philippines.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
