Senators to question 'delay' in convening of impeachment court

Some senators are not too keen on resetting the convening of the Senate Impeachment court to August 4, a week after the opening of the first regular session of the 20th Congress.

- By DHEL NAZARIO

It was Senator Joel Villanueva who first mentioned that the Senate Impeachment court would likely convene on this date for the impeachment case of Vice President Sara Duterte.

Sen. Francis "Kiko" Pangilinan said, on Friday, July 18, that they will seek clarification regarding the proposed resetting.

"In keeping with the Constitutional mandate, dapat walang (there shouldn't be any) delay sa (with the) trial proper," Pangilinan said.

He added that the earliest possible time that they can convene is better because the Constitution is quite clear that upon receipt of the complaint, trial by the Senate shall forthwith proceed.

Sen. Panfilo "Ping" Lacson said that they may need to discuss the proposition in plenary, and determine the justification for the delayed convening of the impeachment court, then vote on it.