7am This is what political retribution looks like
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Dec 3, 2024 Margaret Simons, a Walkley Award-winning journalist with deep expertise in Philippine politics, discusses the alarming tactics of political retribution seen in regimes like that of Rodrigo Duterte. She highlights the wrongful imprisonment of human rights activist Leila de Lima, who opposed Duterte’s brutal drug war, and the systemic corruption that allowed such abuses. As de Lima is finally released from prison, the conversation sheds light on the resilience needed to confront autocracy and the implications for democracy, echoing global political tensions.
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De Lima's Early Investigation
- Leila de Lima investigated the Davao Death Squad, a vigilante group allegedly sponsored by Duterte.
- This investigation marked the start of her antagonistic relationship with Duterte.
Duterte's Smear Campaign
- Duterte accused De Lima of leading a drug network, using fabricated evidence and misinformation.
- Fake sex videos and manipulated images circulated online, damaging her reputation.
Misinformation and Corruption
- Duterte's misinformation campaign against De Lima spread rapidly due to Facebook's accessibility in the Philippines.
- The Philippines' legal system, plagued by corruption, further hindered De Lima's fight for justice.