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COTABATO CITY — The United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP) has issued a statement assailing the violent attack on Datu Piang, Maguindanao del Sur, aspirant for vice mayor Atty. Mohammad Omar Samama on Monday, February 24.
“We are outraged and horrified by the cowardly act of violence committeed against Samama,” the statement reaching media outlets said. He is a UBJP bet along with his father, incumbent Datu Piang Mayor Victor Samama.
The UBJP pointed out the younger Samama is a public official who was shot in broad daylight as he carried out his duties in service to the community.
“We strongly condemn this act of violence, which seeks to intimidate and disrupt the vital works that an elected official do for the well-being and safety of his constituents. No one should ever face violence for fulfilling his responsibilities in public office. This attack is an affront to the values of justice, respect, and the peaceful functioning of our democratic institutions,” the statement continued.
As this developed, the Datu Piang local government unit (LGU) issued a statement after the shooting incident, providing update on the victim.
The LGU’s statement said the younger Samama attended the 4th SHINE (Serbisyong Handog ng Nagmamalasakit at Epektibong Lokal na Pamahalaan ng Datu Piang) Convergence event at the COVID Center in Barangay Magaslong of the municipality.
It added that the vice mayor fulfilling his duties to serve the community.
“We are thankful to report that, by the Grace of Allah, Vice Mayor Samama is currently recovering. His family, colleagues, and the entire community of Datu Piang continue to offer their support, and we remain hopeful for his full recovery,” the LGU’s statement pointed out.
It noted that authorities are presently actively investigating the incident, and we trust that the necessary steps are being taken to ensure that those responsible are identified and brought to justice,” the LGU of Datu Piang said.
In the same vein, the UBJP has called for justice for the vice mayor “and reaffirm our unwavering commitment to peace, security, and the protection of those who serve the public.”
As the Datu Piang LGU urged unity in the community, the UBJP “stand in solidarity with the Samama family and call for swift and decisive action to ensure those responsible are brought to justice.” — Jorel R. Clemenza (♧)