Senate Faces Criticism Over Delayed Impeachment Trial for VP Sara Duterte
The Senate is under fire for its decision to delay the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, with critics arguing that the move contradicts the constitutional mandate for such proceedings to begin “forthwith.”
The trial is now expected to commence only after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s State of the Nation Address (SONA), sparking debate over the Senate’s adherence to legal timelines.
Senate Minority Leader Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel has been vocal in his criticism. He said the Senate’s actions is not “forthwith” as required by the Constitution.
“Hindi na po ‘forthwith’ ang kilos na yan ng Senate (The Senate’s actions is no longer ‘forthwith’),” Pimentel emphasized in a statement.
Immediate Impeachment Trial
He pointed to the constitutional provision that mandates the Senate to proceed immediately with an impeachment trial once the House submits the Articles of Impeachment, provided at least one-third of its members supported it.
“Yan ang mandato ng Constitution (That’s the mandate of the Constitution),” Pimentel stressed.
However, Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero defended the decision, citing procedural requirements that could push the trial’s start date beyond June 30.
Pimentel admitted, according to Escudero, the 10 days each for the parties to file and exchange pleadings folowsing the approval of rules will eat up the period up to June 30 and beyond.
The Senate received the Articles of Impeachment from the House on February 5, but adjourned its session without addressing the documents.
Escudero insists that the Senate will not rush the process, emphasizing the need for thorough preparation. He suggested that the trial proper may not begin until the 20th Congress convenes.
Upholding Constitutional Mandate
The delay has raised questions about the Senate’s commitment to upholding constitutional mandates and ensuring timely accountability.
All eyes are on the Senate to see how it will navigate the delicate balance between procedural diligence and constitutional obligations.
With the impeachment trial now likely postponed, the political landscape remains tense, leaving many to wonder whether the Senate’s approach will strengthen or undermine public trust in the impeachment process.
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