CNMI House impeaches Gov. Ralph Torres

The CNMI House of Representatives voted to impeach Gov. Ralph Torres after two years worth of investigations which reached a tipping point in recent months. 

Lawmakers read the 16 page House Resolution detailing the six articles of Impeachment against Governor Torres. 15 members voted yes, four voted no, and one abstained across the board - Torres' Republican allies not breaking rank while factions of those in the Democratic Party and Independent Republicans backing Lt. Gov. Arnold Palacios pushed the articles through the two-thirds threshold needed to impeach him.

"We are here today because Gov. Torres is unfit to continue in public service," Rep. Tina Sablan announced. "His offenses against the Commonwealth warrant his impeachment and removal from office. We the legislature, the first branch of Government, have a duty to hold him accountable and prevent any further harm to the people's trust." 

The governor is now charged with two articles of felony commission, two articles of corruption, and two articles of neglect of duty. It now moves to the Senate for a trial.

Crowds of supporters for and against impeachment gathered outside the legislator, with many filing in to deliver hours worth of public comments - including the governor's brother.

In CHamoru, Joaquin Torres said, ".....but you and you and those that have served with the governor, you know the type of person the governor is. He is not a criminal. If he ever did something bad you know that it was not his intention do as such."

But others, including a former confidant, also spoke out in support of impeachment.

"I would advise my friend that resignation brings unity to our people, brings stability to the CNMI so we can start rebuilding," Clyde Norita said "I hope my friends is listening and the governor in him will step up to the plate and make the right decision to resign to bring unity and peace to the people of the CNMI."

The governor has denied all charges and maintains his innocence. At a recent press conference, he acknowledged the likelihood of impeachment and says he looks forward to a fair trial in the Senate.


Torres responded to the news of his impeachment saying "I have not done anything illegal. Those who choose to accuse me of wrongdoings choose to remain blind to the fact that progress and good work continues in the Marianas for my supporters and nonsupporters alike."

 

Here is the voting breakdown of the articles of impeachment, which requires two-thirds, or at least 14 of 20 representatives, to impeach on each charge:

- Article 1: Commission of Felony for Theft of Utility Services: 15 members voted yes, 4 voted no, 1 abstained.

- Article 2: Commission of Felony for Theft: 15 members voted yes, 4 voted no, 1 abstained.

- Article 3: Corruption for Unlawful First Class and Business Class Travel: 15 members voted yes, 4 voted no, 1 abstained.

- Article 4: Corruption for Misuse of Government resources: 15 members voted yes, 4 voted no, 1 abstained.

- Article 5: Neglect of Duty for Negligence during Crisis: 15 members voted yes, 4 voted no, 1 abstained.

- Article 6: Neglect of Duty for Contempt of the Legislature: 15 members voted yes, 4 voted no, 1 abstained.

The articles of impeachment now move to the CNMI Senate for a trial. This is a developing story. Tune in to KUAM News Primetime at 6 p.m. for the full story.