📷: Bagong Alyansang Makabayan | FB
A group of impeachment complainants, sectoral leaders, former lawmakers, and concerned citizens has expressed alarm over the delays in the impeachment proceedings of Vice President Sara Duterte.
They denounce discussions suggesting the trial might not proceed due to jurisdictional issues.
The statement garnered 204 signatories including religious leaders, academics, journalists, artists, activists, and student leaders, reflecting a growing demand for justice and accountability.
Among them are 22 religious leaders, including bishops and clergy from different denominations, along with 34 academics and 55 student leaders from universities nationwide. The statement also received support from journalists, writers, artists, and activists working on social justice issues.
The diverse representation highlights a collective call for the Senate to uphold its constitutional duty, warning that any attempt to halt the trial will face strong opposition.
The group stressed that the impeachment trial, transmitted to the Senate on February 5, 2025, has faced nearly four months of delays, risking further postponement as the impeachment court is set to convene on June 11, the last session day of the 19th Congress.
The group argues that these delays violate the constitutional provision mandating that the Senate trial commence “forthwith.”
They claim that President Marcos Jr. is the primary obstacle, opposing the trial and failing to address systemic corruption.
His statements about reconciliation with the Dutertes, they say, undermine efforts for accountability.
The group urges the Senate to assert its constitutional mandate and reject attempts to dismiss the trial on technicalities.
They call for public vigilance, warning that the termination of proceedings would fuel impunity.
Citizens are urged to participate in the process, arguing that corruption, high prices, lack of jobs, and poor social services must be addressed. (ZIA LUNA)
