Oust VP bid timing questioned

The impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte has raised questions about its timing and feasibility, particularly with the upcoming elections.

Analysts suggest that the move may be more of a political maneuver than a serious attempt at removal from office.

In an interview on DAILY TRIBUNE’s digital show Usapang OFW on Thursday, University of Santo Tomas Political Science Department Chair Dennis Coronacion described the impeachment as a “last-minute effort” initiated just before the official campaign period.

“I don’t know if this [impeachment timing] is planned, or if there was a strategy behind it, but definitely it’s a last-minute effort to do something about the impeachment complaint before they go for the campaign,” Coronacion said.

Despite the questionable timing, Coronacion acknowledged that the impeachment complaint may serve as a significant step toward holding Duterte accountable for a series of alleged transgressions.

He specifically pointed to the second article of impeachment, which accuses the vice president of misusing confidential funds.

Other impeachment articles filed against Duterte include allegations of issuing death threats against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., distributing cash envelopes, amassing unexplained wealth amounting to P2 million, involvement in extra-judicial killings, and inciting sedition.

Lawyer and DAILY TRIBUNE columnist Edward Chico argued that the impeachment process appeared more politically motivated than legally substantive.