Impeachment key component of democracy

Impeachment and other accountability mechanisms are crucial parts of democracy, a militant group leader stressed yesterday.

- By JOSE RODEL CLAPANO

Bayan chairman Teddy Casino said President Marcos' pronouncement about Vice President Sara Duterte's potential impeachment being a "waste of time" only weakens the country's already weak and dysfunctional democracy.

He stressed transparency and accountability is a commitment to justice that every Filipino deserves.

"There are three reasons why impeachment and other accountability measures are never a waste of time and resources. One, it is a check against tyranny," he said.

According to Casino, the country has a sad history of authoritarian and dynastic rule, with impeachment and other accountability measures being the most helpful tools in preventing the abuse of power at the hands of a few.

"Two, it strengthens the rule of law. It is the means to ensure that 'no one is above the law,' regardless of the position in the government," he added.

"Accountability measures help prevent government funds and resources from being plundered for private gain and ensuring they are used for the people's benefit," he concluded.

Meanwhile, Duterte's supporters who camped out at EDSA Shrine argued with reporters covering their rally on Friday.

Reporters from various television networks were covering the activities at the EDSA Shrine when angry Duterte supporters confronted them.

The protesters "banned" reporters and their camera crew from taking shots, saying they already have vloggers covering their activity.

When the reporters asked the supporters why they were banning them, they accused them of being biased in their reports.

Impeachment Sen. Imee Marcos said the House of Representatives is already working on tackling the impeachment complaint against Duterte.

The senator expressed alarm at the moves in the lower House to impeach Duterte despite the call of her younger brother, President Marcos, not to pursue it and focus instead on addressing the country's problems.