Expelling Arnie Teves from Congress: An Urgent Call for Accountability

Expelling Arnie Teves from Congress: An Urgent Call for Accountability
Expelling Congressman Arnie Teves from Congress is of utmost importance. The US Congress has expelled members for offenses much less severe than what Congressman Teves is accused of. Let's take a look at some examples: James Traficant (2002): James Traficant was expelled from the House of Representatives for bribery, racketeering, and tax evasion. He became only the second member to be expelled from the House since the Civil War. Michael Myers (1980): Michael Myers was expelled from the House of Representatives due to his involvement in the ABSCAM scandal, an FBI sting operation targeting corruption in Congress. He was convicted of bribery and conspiracy charges. Harrison A. Williams Jr. (1982): Harrison A. Williams Jr. was expelled from the Senate on March 11, 1982. He was implicated in the ABSCAM scandal and convicted of bribery and conspiracy charges. In the case of Congressman Teves, Congress should consider his alleged involvement in the brutal murder of Governor Degamo, nine others, and the injury of eighteen individuals. Additionally, he faces cases filed against him for the murder of Board Member Dungog of Negros Oriental, along with other murders. Congressman Teves' attempt to seek asylum in Timor-Leste raises concerns. Other governments, such as Russia and China, are highly sensitive to members of their government seeking asylum overseas, deeming them national security risks. They could potentially possess key state secrets that other countries could exploit. Congressman Teves' application for asylum in Timor-Leste, and his persistence in fighting the legal battle to secure it, signifies a serious intention to abandon his Philippine citizenship and shirk his duties as a congressman. Congress should address the national security implications of his actions. Local officials can be expelled from legislative bodies for continued absences under the DILG Code. Congressman Teves has been absent for more than 60 days and is currently serving two suspensions from the Ethics Committee. So why hasn't he been expelled already? Unfortunately, expulsion requires a higher threshold, and Congress may have to wait for a conviction. However, if the Department of Justice succeeds in declaring Congressman Teves a terrorist and his cohorts as a terrorist organization, the situation may change. The Ethics Committee cannot possibly ignore the presence of a potential terrorist serving in their midst. It is regrettable that allegations of illegal wealth accumulation through illegal gambling have not triggered an Ethics Committee investigation. A congressman's salary cannot support the extravagant lifestyle that Arnie Teves exhibits. His alleged source of funds from illegal gambling is unacceptable for any member of Congress. For years, Congress has turned a blind eye to this issue. Even local officials, such as the PNP, face severe penalties if caught engaging in gambling operations due to restrictions. However, for some reason, Arnie Teves seems untouchable by his colleagues and has never been investigated in this matter. He possesses a fleet of helicopters, luxury jets, yachts, cars, resorts, and properties that cannot be supported by his congressional salary.