Corrupt Politicians and the Election Time

          By Vic Odarve

Politicians may be immune to bribery and corruption charges because they have strong connections to the justice departments, billions of dollars at their disposal, and are members of a strong and influential political dynasty. Normally, corrupt individuals with strong ties to judicial officers are exempt from prosecution. Political leaders who became billionaires through illegal government transactions are expected to stay out of the court investigation. Strong political influences will extend their arms to cover up illegal acts committed by members of any political dynasty. This is the modern landscape in our democratic world; government and wealth… with the skillful maneuvering that may save politicians from imprisonment. But election time is coming!

Yes, a strong connection to any one of the judges could do wonders. Usually, the connection dates to the feudal times when grandparents were close to each other, friends, schoolmates, and events that were shared together. Some judges do some favors as personal gratitude to long- time friends and allies, and for aiding and defending them in their time of difficulty. It is the payback period. That is why some politicians, despite proof of voluminous files on graft and corruption, let the case drag slowly until it fades off into limbo. The case stands still like time and space in a black hole due to the strong gravitational pull. Such was the case of the late strongman Ferdinand Marcos, which is still in court. A few weeks ago, the Sandiganbayan ordered the Royal Traders Holding Company, Incorporated (RTHCI) to pay the Philippine government at least P367 million, saying the amount was part of the ill-gotten wealth of the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos and his family. It is a frustrating scenario for the electorate and the voting public in general. Strong connections work!

Traditional or Recycled Politicians

The color of money still makes the difference. Politicians who are billionaires can afford good lawyers who will defend everything at all costs just to twist the case in their favor. On that point, there are reported instances where some members of the magistrates allegedly facilitate the sale of court decisions, influencing other justices to find in favor of the clients for a monetary value.  Take the example of the mayor of Makati City, Philippines. When an anti-graft court issued a 60-day suspension to a city mayor, the Court of Appeals came to the rescue. The Court of Appeals issued a temporary restraining order and then a writ of injunction on the Ombudsman order. The Senate investigating committee accused two Courts of Appeals justices of receiving money from a Makati mayor in exchange for an order restraining the Ombudsman from suspending the mayor under investigation. Worse, people clamor that CA justice is for sale. This restraining order saved the mayor from suspension. The color of money makes the difference. 

Late Dictator Marcos

Political dynasties have always influenced court cases. Politics does influence the judges’ decisions considering their stakes in some of the client’s social and business circles. Some justices are appointed by the political kingpin of the area of legal power; others are associated with their jobs. With dynasty, democratic exercise can be easily manipulated for selfish purposes, allowing them to maintain power. In this way, they have monopolistic control over the economic resources within given territorial jurisdictions or bailiwicks. In areas where landlords and political clans dominate, justice usually runs in the favor of the mighty and powerful. Political dynasties rule!

But not all politicians and justices are built the same way. There are a few who are not after money or are afraid of the famous and powerful men in society. Most Filipinos feel that the government is really moving in Duterte’s term. Many people are hopeful that the president will indeed bring change to the country through his ‘build, build, build’ program. He fought and adhered to the law. Duterte is instrumental in closing the ABS CBN network that for years manipulated tax obligations. The people are indebted to Marcoleta and Defensor for sharing how the networks' tax fraud works. There are also some politicians and government employees who earn billions of pesos from public funds and other illegal sources and are charged with corruption and embezzlement. They are now languishing in prison. Such were the case of our Phil health officials and Senator De Lima.

Too much politicking, corruption, and political dynasties are widely blamed for weak democracy. These are the underlying reasons why cheaters in our government offices escape from punishment. Fighting corruption and cleansing judicial judges are necessary. It is a painful process but must be done. Crooked politicians and justices with corrupt inclinations must be out of our generation. Justice is not for sale!

Now, an election is coming. This is a time for change. Vote wisely. To recycle or not to recycle these traditional politicians is up to you. The choice is yours and is irrevocable when the dust of all our cities incarnadines the sunsets of the world.

 

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