Arroyo files an anti-turncoatism bill that prohibits politicians to switch political parties.
Rep. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo filed an anti-turncoatism bill to prohibit political butterflies or those switching political parties before, during, or after elections.
“Our history tells us that political parties in the Philippines are normally used only as political vehicles to win an election. Hence, most political aspirants change political parties for convenience, rather than because of conviction,” Arroyo said in the bill’s explanatory note.
Switching political parties only shows the lack of ideological commitment of the members to the party because they pick parties based on the ability of the party to win, the Manila Standard reported.
“Turncoatism should never be encouraged nor tolerated since it only distorts the concept of word of honor and dignity of a leader.” Arroyo stressed.
Arroyo proposed on her bill that these political chameleons shall be disqualified from being appointed or from holding any position in the public or government office for three years after the expiration of the current term. Records show she had aligned herself with various political parties namely PDP Laban (2017 to 2020), Lakas (1998-2008), KAMPI (1997-2008) and LDP (1992-1998)
The proposal also states that the political turncoats shall be deemed to have forfeited their elective office if candidates change their political party affiliation one year before or after any elections. This can lead to the penalty of disqualification from running for any elective positions in the next succeeding elections.
It also prohibits these turncoats from assuming any executive or administrative position in the new political party. They (turncoats) are required to refund any and all amounts received from their former political party plus a 25 percent surcharge.
“It is imperative that the political party system should be strengthened if we want to develop, achieve political development and democratization,” Arroyo declared
Tags: #Politics, #AntiTurnCoatism, #Arroyo