3 days ago
Makabayan bloc refiled anti-political dynasty bill
A bill seeking to define and prohibit political dynasties in the country has been filed in the House of Representatives.
Under House Bill 209 filed by ACT Teachers Party-list Representative Antonio Tinio and Kabataan Party-list Representative, a political dynasty is defined as a family or clan that concentrates, consolidates, or perpetuates their political power by holding public office simultaneously or successively.
The bill states that no person shall hold or run for any elective national or local office simultaneously with another within the fourth degree of consanguinity or affinity, whether legitimate or illegitimate, full or half blood.
It adds that no person within the prohibited civil degree of relationship to an incumbent elected official shall immediately succeed to the position of the latter.
Under the bill, any person running for any elective public office shall file a sworn statement with the Commission on Elections stating that they do not fall under the prohibition.
It states the Comelec, motu proprio or upon verified petition, shall disqualify the candidates found violating the Act and their votes, if any, shall not be counted. The violator shall not be proclaimed and allowed to assume office.—Tina Panganiban-Perez/AOL, GMA Integrated News
