The prosecution panel in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte expressed confusion over the defense team’s angry and somber reaction following the withdrawal of three major articles of impeachment.
In an interview on One News’ Sa Totoo Lang, private prosecutor Lorna Kapunan stated that the defense should be celebrating rather than complaining, as the prosecution has narrowed the scope of the trial down to a single charge: unexplained wealth.
“We in the prosecution are wondering, why are they sad? Why are they angry? They should be happy because instead of four charges, they only have to disprove one now,” Kapunan said in a mix of English and Tagalog.
She noted that the defense no longer needs to present evidence against charges of grave threats, misuse of confidential funds, and bribery, as those have been formally withdrawn.
Kapunan added that in her entire legal career, this is the first time she has seen a respondent become “very sad” after charges against them were dropped.
Meanwhile, Kapunan stood firm against criticisms from Vice President Duterte regarding her earlier remarks labeling lead defense counsel Atty. Shiela Sison a “bully” and “rude.” Kapunan refused to retract her statements, maintaining that the prosecution panel has been constantly bullied by the defense whenever it suits them.
She also fired back at accusations that the prosecution is wasting public time and government resources, arguing instead that the trial has been prolonged by the defense’s own “worthless and pointless” cross-examinations. # (RRN)
