ILIGAN CITY (MindaNews/29 April) — A network of non-governmental organizations here has appealed to local politicians to refrain from verbal violence and mudslinging in their campaign.
The Civil Society Organization-Forum for Peace Inc.(CSOFP) instead called on candidates to focus on their development and social services plans.
CSOFP head Janina Bernardo said they are tired of the outbursts of local candidates in “using the airwaves in throwing mud [against rivals] and in exhibiting their dirty linens.
All political groups of the city have programs in local radio stations to promote their candidacies, programs, and also in attacking one another.
Recently, one political group unearthed alleged corruption issues on major projects, another talked on omission of public duties and yet another capitalized on issues regarding previous bombing incidents in Iligan to discredit incumbent officials.
“Verbal violence is unhealthy. What happens to them? They are showing off their dirty linens. Don’t they think of the violent impact on the people and the children listening on radio?” Bernardo asked.
“Many of the candidates here are just relatives by affinity and sanguinity. And they are attacking each other even if they are sharing similar genealogy. What kind of information are they baring to people with all these slanderous statements — their dirt?” Bernardo further commented.
She said that there are many problems in Iligan that the politicians can discuss. “Maybe they can go back to discuss their party agenda or an assessment of their performance. We do not want to listen to unpeaceful character assassination,” Bernardo suggested.
“They better talk on what has been done so far and what they can do more for peace and development,” she said. “It is better if they can repackage their discussion on basic services, electricity rates issues, improving projects and on how to resolve development conflicts with the right agenda,” she added.
“Our people do not like leaders with foul mouth; our children can’t even appreciate their attitudes in the campaign,” she added
Bernardo bared that the civil society here is also organizing a forum for mayoral and vice mayoral candidates by May 3. (Violeta M. Gloria / MindaNews)