Pending Ombudsman cases shadow Mangudadatu’s BARMM Chief Minister bid
MINDANAO -- Public pressure is mounting on the Office of the Ombudsman in Mindanao to swiftly resolve long-pending administrative and criminal cases against former Sultan Kudarat Governor Suharto “Teng” Mangudadatu as he reportedly seeks the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) chief minister post through a political party replacement member.
The push for a resolution comes at a politically sensitive time as the Bangsamoro Parliament prepares to elect its next chief minister, a decision that will determine the direction of the regional government and the continuity of reforms under the peace framework.
Records from the anti-graft office show that complainants Mastura M. Usman and Nhoraidha P. Ebus filed administrative and criminal complaints against Mangudadatu, docketed as OMB-M-C-JAN-23-0012 and OMB-M-A-JAN-23-0012.
The criminal complaint alleges violations of Republic Act 3019, the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, and Article 177 of the Revised Penal Code on usurpation of authority or official functions. The administrative complaint charges him with grave misconduct, conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service, and violations of the Local Government Code.
According to case records, Mangudadatu won the governorship of Sultan Kudarat in the 13 May 2019 elections.
Complainants allege he later transferred his residence and voter registration to Datu Abdullah Sangki, Maguindanao, on 27 September 2021—a claim supported by certifications from Commission on Elections offices in Datu Abdullah Sangki and Intramuros, Manila.
Simultaneously, allegations have surfaced regarding Mangudadatu’s political maneuvering to secure a seat in the Bangsamoro Parliament and advance his bid for chief minister.
An elected member of parliament, speaking on condition of anonymity, stressed that entry into the legislative body and the selection of its executive must adhere strictly to established laws and parliamentary rules.
“Coercion, bribery, deception, or other unlawful means must not be allowed to determine the outcome of the Bangsamoro leadership selection process,” the lawmaker said.
The MP warned that any proven attempt to manipulate the leadership selection could undermine the credibility of the regional government and public confidence in institutions established through the peace process.
Public interest has intensified regarding the Ombudsman’s next steps and whether a definitive resolution to the case is imminent.
“With the BARMM Parliament preparing to select its next chief minister, the timely and impartial resolution of cases involving public accountability can help reduce uncertainty and strengthen confidence in the region’s institutions,” the MP added.
Efforts to obtain comment from Mangudadatu were unsuccessful as of the moment.