Duterte: Don’t touch Nur’s wife

DAVAO CITY, Philippines – Mayor Rodrigo Duterte yesterday asked authorities not to touch Tarhata Misuari, the wife of Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) chairman Nur Misuari.

Misuari’s wife sought refuge in this city during the almost month-long clashes between MNLF forces loyal to Misuari and government forces in Zamboanga City.

An arrest warrant has been issued for Misuari following the Zamboanga siege that left several people dead and thousands others homeless.

“The family must be spared from this,” Duterte said, adding that those who are not involved in the standoff like Misuari’s family must be spared from the manhunt for the MNLF chairman.

Misuari is also married to Eleonora “Roida” Tan and Fatima Celia Kiram.  

Duterte said Tarhata sought his help as she wanted to relocate her family here. 

“Tarhata, the wife, she has been here and she intends to relocate. I said fine, come here. She was complaining that they are being followed by the military in Zamboanga. Well, in Davao City, that cannot happen because I will not allow it,” Duterte said.

Local authorities vowed to protect Misuari’s family while they are here. Duterte refused to divulge the exact location of Misuari’s wife.