'People's Court' finds Arroyo guilty

An unofficial court led by Philippine ex-Vice President found Gloria Arroyo guilty of electoral fraud, corruption and rights violations.

An unofficial "People's Court" led by Philippine former vice president Teofisto Guingona Jr on Wednesday found President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo guilty of electoral fraud, corruption and rights violations.

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Convening for the last time Wednesday, the "People's Court", namely, the Citizens' Congress for Truth and Accountability (CCTA), called on Arroyo to step down because she betrayed public trust and violated the constitution, the Inquirer news network reported.

According to the report, the CCTA first convened on Nov 8, 2005 and held five public hearings, during which 22 witnesses testified against Arroyo.

In its 203-page report, the CCTA accused Arroyo of rigging the 2004 presidential balloting with the help of election commissioner Virgilio Garcillano.

The president allegedly talked to Garcillano over telephone to ensure her victory.

The report was turned over to opposition Representative Francis Escuedero, who led last year's impeachment against her.

He said the findings would be used to file before Congress a new impeachment complaint against the president.