Philippines Launches Impeachment Trial Against Vice President Duterte

The Philippine Senate has convened as an impeachment court to try Vice President Sara Duterte, amid ongoing political turmoil and division. The trial began on Monday, following a series of events that included a shootout in the upper house and changes in its leadership. Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, who is wanted by the International Criminal Court for crimes against humanity related to his role in the “war on drugs,” recently re-emerged from hiding to cast his vote, which led to his arrest and subsequent escape.

Dela Rosa’s reappearance prompted a change in Senate leadership, with Alan Peter Cayetano being installed as president. The new leadership has overseen the opening of the impeachment trial against Duterte, who is accused of misusing public funds, amassing unexplained wealth, and threatening the lives of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., his wife, and a former House speaker.

Duterte’s defence team has stated that they will comply with the court’s requirements but have declined to comment on the trial. The court has not set a date for the start of trial hearings. Duterte’s impeachment is also linked to her father, Rodrigo Duterte, who is currently in ICC custody in The Hague, awaiting confirmation of charges related to his “war on drugs” policies.

The trial has sparked protests outside the Senate building, with some supporters calling for Duterte’s conviction and others expressing concerns about the lack of trust in politicians. The event has highlighted the ongoing political divisions in the country and the need for accountability among those in power.

Source: Al Jazeera