Lawmakers Respond to Calls for Bloodbath in Impeachment Trial
Congressman-elect Chel Diokno of Akbayan and Congresswoman-elect Leila de Lima of the Mamamayang Liberal Party-list have dismissed Vice President Sara Duterte’s remarks about wanting a “bloodbath” during her impeachment trial. Both legislators emphasized that an impeachment trial must remain a peaceful and lawful process.
The comments were made following the proclamation of their respective party-lists at the Manila Hotel on May 19. Diokno and De Lima will be serving as House prosecutors in the upcoming impeachment proceedings, replacing two previous solon-prosecutors who lost in the recent elections.
Impeachment Trial Must Be Civilized
Diokno expressed confusion over Duterte’s statement, saying, “Di ko alam kung saan nanggagaling ‘yun, dahil ang impeachment ay isang (I don’t know where she got that, because an impeachment is a) civilized legal process.” He stressed that the trial is meant to uncover the truth, hold accountable those responsible, and deliver justice to the people.
De Lima echoed these sentiments, warning against viewing the impeachment as a violent or chaotic event. She said, “Naku, hindi dapat ganoon ang iniisip. Hindi po ganoon ang impeachment proceedings. Sagrado po ang Constitution sa process of impeachment (She should not think that way. Impeachment proceedings are not like that. According to the Constitution, it is sacred).”
Calls for Bloodbath Seen as Dramatic
De Lima also suggested that Duterte’s call for a “bloodbath” was aimed at generating sympathy and creating dramatic tension. She remarked that the Vice President’s words were more theatrical than sincere, intended to stir emotions rather than reflect the legal reality of the trial.
Despite the provocative language, both lawmakers remain committed to ensuring the impeachment trial proceeds with dignity and respect for the legal system. They view the process as a vital avenue for justice rather than a spectacle.
Peaceful Proceedings Essential for Justice
As House prosecutors, Diokno and De Lima are preparing to uphold the integrity of the trial and ensure it is conducted according to constitutional guidelines. They reiterated that the impeachment should focus on uncovering facts and protecting the rule of law, not on inciting conflict or violence.
The lawmakers’ responses highlight the importance of maintaining peaceful proceedings even amid politically charged situations. Their stance reassures the public that the impeachment trial will be handled with seriousness and respect for democratic principles.
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