The Sandiganbayan Fourth Division on Tuesday ordered former President and incumbent Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo suspended for 90 days in connection with her involvement in the anomalous NBN-ZTE deal.
The Office of the Ombudsman in December 2011 filed graft charges against the former President for supposedly approving the $329-million NBN-ZTE contract, despite being “fully aware” of its supposed irregularities. Arroyo has pleaded not guilty to the accusations.
“Accused Ma. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo is ordered suspended from office pendente lite and said accused is hearby directed to cease and desist from performing and/or enjoying the salaries, benefits and privileges of her present public position or any other public office or position she may now or hereafter be holding, effective upon motive hereof and continuing for a period of ninety days,” the court said.
The Fourth Division cited Section 13 of Republic Act 3019 or the Anti Graft and Corrupt Practices Act which states that any public officer charged with graft can be suspended from office.
Meanwhile, Arroyo is given 15 days to file a motion for reconsideration of the suspension, after which the order will come into effect. —NB, GMA News
