Makabayan Bloc Co-Chairman Condemns Congress as 'Subservient' Following Dismissal of Impeachment Complaints Against President Marcos
Atty. Carlos Isagani Zarate, Co-Chairman of the Makabayan Bloc, has launched a scathing critique against members of Congress, labeling them as "subservient" in the wake of the recent dismissal of two impeachment complaints targeting President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. The outspoken lawmaker asserted that this action starkly demonstrates what he perceives as Malacañang's firm grip over the House of Representatives, raising serious concerns about political independence and accountability within the legislative body.
Substance Over Form: The Core of the Controversy
Zarate elaborated that the Makabayan Bloc vehemently opposes the outright dismissal of the impeachment complaints. He argued that the complaints are not merely "sufficient in form" but are also "sufficient in substance," as they substantiate grave allegations against the President. These allegations include:
- Betrayal of public trust
- Involvement in controversial budget insertions
- Links to anomalous flood control projects and other irregularities
According to Zarate, these grounds provide a robust foundation for the Committee on Justice to proceed with a thorough examination of the complaints, rather than terminating the process prematurely.
The Political Nature of Impeachment and Calls for Due Process
Zarate emphasized that impeachment is inherently a political process, one that can be influenced by those in power. He stressed that the complaints should not have been "killed immediately" without affording President Marcos an opportunity to present evidence countering the allegations. Furthermore, he called for accountability, urging that high-ranking officials implicated in any anomalies must be held responsible to combat the escalating corruption plaguing the nation.
Congressional Decision and Voting Outcome
This criticism follows a decisive move by the plenary, which ratified the dismissal of the impeachment complaints after the House Committee on Justice declared them "insufficient in substance." The vote saw an overwhelming majority in favor, with 284 lawmakers supporting the dismissal, only eight opposing, and four abstaining. This outcome has fueled debates over legislative autonomy and the integrity of impeachment proceedings in the current political climate.
