Groups call SC to compel Congress on political dynasty ban

Various groups and individuals have called on the Supreme Court to compel Congress to pass a law prohibiting political dynasties.

Representative Antonio Carpio, Sanlakas representative Marie Margerite Lopez, former election chairman Christian Monsod, and other petitioners filed a case on March 31, seeking the passage of such legislation.

The petitioners argue that political dynasties undermine equal access to public service and have worsened socio-economic development by prioritizing policies that benefit their own interests.

Former military officials, bishops, priests, former government officials, UP professors, and other individuals also signed as petitioners, emphasizing Congress's constitutional obligation to enact an anti-political dynasty law.

The petitioners cite data showing that nearly 80% of Congress members come from political families and asked the SC to hold Congress in contempt if they fail to comply within a year.

They stressed that the government has yet to enact an anti-political dynasty law even though four decades have passed since the ratification of the Constitution, effectively repealing Article II, Section 26.