Ex-mayor's legal team welcomes repatriation

The legal team of dismissed Bamban mayor Alice Guo welcomed her apprehension in Indonesia and her impending repatriation, saying this would allow them to answer allegations and issues lodged against her.

- DAPHNE GALVEZ

In a statement, Guo’s legal counsel Stephen David expressed gratitude and relief at the “safe” apprehension of the dismissed mayor, saying they are deeply concerned about her health, safety and security.

“She may not know or realize it by now, but this recent event can be a good start for all her cases,” he said.

He said they trust Guo will show courage and resilience in answering the charges and accusations against her.

David also urged the public to avoid making crude and malicious comments and baseless accusations as issues against Guo “will be ventilated and answered in the proper forum and before courts of competent jurisdiction.”

He reminded that Guo, until proven otherwise, is innocent and deserves to be represented by a counsel of her choice and has the right to prove her innocence before the courts of law.