Progressive political party Akbayan has criticized the recent announcement by the Duterte family that three of its members will run for the Senate in 2025, describing it as a desperate move by “a fading political dynasty”.
“The Dutertes’ recent announcement that three clan members will run for the Senate in 2025 reeks of desperation. It’s the final bluff of a fading political dynasty. It is the last gasp by a faltering old man and his offspring to cling to political relevance,” Akbayan said in a statement sent to reporters on June 25.
The criticism came in the wake of Vice President Sara Duterte’s recent resignation as the secretary of the Department of Education and co-chairperson of the government’s anti-communist task force.
The Senate bid announcement came amid the looming threat of arrest by the International Criminal Court (ICC) against former President Rodrigo Duterte and his close allies over the war on drugs campaign that resulted in thousands of deaths.
Akbayan argued that these developments have left the Dutertes without strategic moves and devoid of a coherent political project to ensure their survival.
“In their panic, they’re trying to bluff through this crisis, but their old tricks are worn out. The public sees through their theatrics,” it added.
The group dubbed the Dutertes’ announcement as “the Dutertes’ Desperate Slate (DDS),” suggesting that the family is resorting to a political charade in an attempt to distract from their impending legal and political challenges.
“Instead of a tired charade, prepare for your inevitable date with justice,” the group said.
