Wanted: Strict enforcement of election laws

FOR too long and since the constitution was amended in 1986, “political dynasty” was deemed evil and our constitution banned it without as much defining what constitutes a political dynasty.

An attempt was made to finally define it but has been made to apply only in the election and organization of Sangguniang Kabataan (SK).

Unfortunately, there is nothing even in the SK definition that underscores its significance in the context of a democratic system of government, where leaders are elected, and succession is effected by the electorate, not by the family of politicians.

That mostly only the affluent political families in the country could afford to launch and fund a campaign is a reality and that alone does not necessarily mean that their rule by succession is infinite because their election is still in the hands of the people.

In our democratic system, it’s still not criminal to be affluent unless it is proven or established by public perception that the family’s newfound wealth is ill-gotten. The phrase “political dynasty” appended to a rich political family merely because its members are duly elected in various positions is, therefore, grossly unfair.

Instead of making political dynastism an issue, what really needs to be done is to neutralize the affluent corrupt political family known for blatantly violating our election laws. To do this, we must encourage electorate to see to the strict enforcement of election laws that seek to level the playing field and equalize political opportunities for all.

 

Friendship breaks traditions

A rare display of searing friendship was injected to the national consciousness when President Duterte accompanied Bong Go to the Comelec offices on October 15.  Go filed his candidacy for senator in the May 2019 election, a move that was in accordance with the President’s wish to see his bosom buddy become also a public servant through the ballot.

Their friendship seems to have no equal hereabouts.

Forged 21 years ago, it has survived trials and tribulations and has become the envy of many.  The two have become inseparable since they held their first handshake in 1997.  Since then, where Duterte goes, Go is there, too, come hell or high water.

By accompanying Go to the Comelec, Mr. Duterte broke tradition as he became the first sitting President to personally accompany someone filing his certificate of candidacy.  If that is not genuine friendship, what is?

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