Televangelist’s Politics: A Complicated Allegory of Privilege and Law
When Celebrity Meets Politics – The Quiboloy Story
Televangelist Apollo Quiboloy is not new to controversy. With his senatorial bid in the midst of serious court charges, his affluent and influential background has allowed for what many are deeming as preferential treatment. Allowed to recoard and release a campaign video while detained, Quiboloy adds another layer to the confounding saga of his political career.
Apollo Quiboloy’s Controversial Move to Politics
Charged with human trafficking and child abuse accusations, Apollo Quiboloy’s entry into politics has been filled with controversies. Further tension comes with his connection to the former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte and his association with the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino Lakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban). While his cases are still being heard, Quiboloy’s Senatorial bid has prompted outcry, culminating in the accusations of biased treatment.
The Detainment Scandal – Are Liberties Being Taken?
The nitty-gritty of Quiboloy’s detainment period is where things get a little murky. A fiery backlash was sparked by the permission authorities gave to the pastor to record a campaign video. Despite the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology’s (BJMP) ban on camera use by detainees, Quiboloy managed to create a video during his confinement in a hospital. This raised eyebrows, leading to the question – Do influential figures get preferential treatment in the legal system?
Investigating the Fine Details of Quiboloy’s Hospital Stay
Examination of the underlying facts reveals that Quiboloy was given permission by Judge Rainelda Estacio Montesa to record the medieval. The permission was secured while Quiboloy was held at Pasig City General Hospital due to pneumonia and hypertension. Questions arise about the seemingly preferential permit – Was it a case of preferential treatment or an act within the boundaries of the legal system?
An Issue of Double Standards?
Detainee privileges are typically strict. Yet, the leeway offered to Quiboloy raises questions about a possible double standard. Selda, an organization of former detainees, called out this instance of inequality in the system, noting the overly strict rules facing poor detainees compared to those with influence and power. Is the justice system showing implicit bias toward the affluent?
Contrasting Treatment – A Historical Overview
When we dive into historical comparisons, we find notable distinctions in detainee rights, particularly when examining the suspended visitation rights of political prisoners in Metro Manila District Jail. Political prisoners drew punishments for speaking out about unsatisfactory conditions. The contrast in the treatment between these prisoners and Quiboloy raises more questions about the justice system’s impartiality.
Influence of Power and Privilege in the Legal System
Through the lens of Quiboloy’s story, the correlation between power, influence and the way legal issues are handled seems apparent. Critical conversations around privilege and power dynamics within the legal and judicial space are prompted. Are they facilitating special exceptions?
Conclusion
The twisted tale surrounding televangelist-turned-politician Apollo Quiboloy seems to reflect wider societal issues. His story, filled with serious accusations, political alliances, and disputed privilege, provides an opportunity to confront the detangling of power dynamics within the justice system. Much can be garnered from this situation about the societal intricacies that underpin privilege, power, and the law.
Originally Post From https://www.inquirer.net/429059/letting-quiboloy-do-campaign-video-reeks-of-vip-treatment-selda/
