President Marcos’ Hands-Off Approach on Vice President Duterte Impeachment Trial
Iloilo’s 3rd district representative Lorenz Defensor supports President Marcos’ hands-off approach on the upcoming impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte. Defensor believes this stance aligns well with the constitutional principle of separation of powers.
He remarked, “I’m glad to hear that the President, as the head of the Executive Department, will not interfere with the impeachment process.” Defensor, who will serve as a prosecutor in the Senate trial, emphasized the importance of allowing the Senate to conduct the trial independently.
Ensuring an Independent Senate Trial
Defensor explained that since the President holds significant power, any interference might pressure the senator-judges. “As the President is the most powerful man in the country, he will exert undue influence on the senator-Judges and we want the senator-judges to act independently, free from any influence from the executive department,” he said.
The House of Representatives impeached Vice President Duterte on February 5, supported by 215 signatures from congressmen. The Senate impeachment trial is expected to begin in July. As public interest grows, Defensor stressed the importance of impartiality in the proceedings.
Political Environment and Public Perception
While the President’s statement may shape public opinion, Defensor highlighted that its real value lies in fostering a political environment where senators can render unbiased decisions. “It’s good to hear that he will not be involved so that all parties will not be judged by any undue interference from any department, considering that we have a separation of powers,” he added.
He acknowledged the influence of such comments on public attitudes but reaffirmed the constitutional independence of the legislative branch in handling impeachment cases.
Confidence in a Fair and Objective Trial
Despite recognizing the political nature of impeachment, Defensor remains confident that the Senate will carry out its responsibilities thoroughly and fairly. “But I want to see that senator-judges will act independently. And while we agree that it’s a political process and the senators have their own affiliations, we want to see a trial, an objective trial when it comes to the presentation of evidence by the prosecution as well as by the defense,” he said.
This approach aims to maintain the credibility of the impeachment process, ensuring justice is served without bias or undue pressure.
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