The militant Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas (KMP) issued some unsolicited advice to retired general Fortunato Abat. According to Danilo “Ka Daning” Ramos, secretary general of the group, “if Abat is really sincere in advocating change and calling for a revolutionary government then he and his group must link up and join the masses. He can do this by stating the concrete stands of the Coalition for National Salvation on certain issues like genuine land reform, the political killings of activists, wage hike, education, power rate hikes, oil price increases, national industrialization and the like. If these are not clear then how can he muster support?”

“ He must have a very clear stand on these issues, if he has and the people agree with him then he might gain their support, but if not then he would be branded by Malacanang as nothing but a nuisance destabilizer,” added the peasant leader.

For his part Carl Anthony Ala, public information officer of KMP, “though Gen. Abat made a tactical blunder by first announcing his plan and telegraphing his moves. He should have instead implemented his plan first, gain critical mass support then make his decisive move, calling in the media after the plan has been carried out successfully, but it is not too late if he immerses himself and his group with the masses. Unless of course they are all arrested, but in our view he was just exercising his freedom of expression” 

“Also for a leader to be followed he should set an example and listen to his followers, tantrums and walk outs would not work, it shows immaturity and extreme pride. These are characteristics that are stumbling blocks for effective leadership and a harmonious relationship with ones followers. Besides the masses pick their own leaders, they are not self-appointed,” ended Ala. # # #
 

KMP - 2 May 2005