Senator Calls for Sanctions Against Prosecutors Who Appealed De Lima
Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan has urged the Department of Justice (DOJ) to impose sanctions on the panel of prosecutors who filed an appeal seeking to overturn the acquittal of liberal party-list Representative Leila de Lima.
The senator highlighted the need for accountability from the 10-member prosecution team that pushed for reconsideration despite the court’s prior rulings. “Sanctions sought against prosecutors who appealed De Lima” is a key concern as this move raises questions about ethical conduct and respect for constitutional guarantees.
Prosecutors’ Motion Filed Then Withdrawn
The prosecution initially submitted a motion for reconsideration on July 14. However, following consultations with Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla, they withdrew this motion on July 23.
Senator Pangilinan called this sequence of actions a misuse of prosecutorial powers. He said, “This is not only a harassment and a deliberate act of injustice against someone who has already suffered seven years of detention over baseless charges, but it is also a misuse of prosecutorial power and an affront to the judiciary.”
Background of De Lima’s Legal Battles
Leila de Lima, a known critic of former President Rodrigo Duterte, was detained in February 2017. She faced three separate cases before the Muntinlupa City Regional Trial Court (RTC) related to alleged illegal drug activities in the New Bilibid Prison.
The RTC dismissed the first case in February 2021, the second in May 2023, and the third in June 2024. Despite these acquittals, the Court of Appeals on April 30 remanded the case back to the Muntinlupa RTC for reconsideration based on procedural matters.
Following this, the RTC again acquitted De Lima on June 27, reaffirming the dismissal of charges against her.
Calls for Accountability and Justice
Local leaders and legal experts emphasize the importance of upholding ethical standards in prosecutions. The senator’s demand for legal and administrative sanctions reflects wider concerns about protecting rights and preventing harassment through legal means.
This case underscores the tension between political influence and judicial independence in high-profile legal battles.
For more news and updates on De Lima’s case, visit Filipinokami.com.
