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Fitial urges: Let the court of law decide
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Posted on Aug 11 2008
Although deeply troubled by the indictment of Lt. Gov. Timothy P. Villagomez, Gov. Benigno R. Fitial said he respects the U.S. criminal justice system and trusts it to get to the truth of the matter.
“As Governor of the CNMI, and as a U.S. citizen, I cannot judge a person’s guilt or innocence. That is for a court of law to decide,” said Fitial in a statement.
He said he was officially informed of Villagomez’s arrest and indictment yesterday, Monday.
The governor said he understands that these federal charges relate to the lieutenant governor’s previous administration of the troubled Commonwealth Utilities Corp.
Fitial said he has high confidence in the justice system, with due process and all of the procedural and constitutional safeguards afforded to every person charged under the law.
“I defer to the court and I will be content to follow this trial closely in the pursuit of justice. I trust that justice will ultimately be served pursuant to law,” he said.
The governor said he recognizes the difficulty that this matter represents to the CNMI government and to the reputation of the Commonwealth abroad.
“I look forward to the quick and appropriate resolution of this matter for the benefit of our island community,” Fitial added.
House Speaker Arnold I. Palacios said the only thing that people can do is to let the judicial system work its way.
“Personally, it’s a sad day for the Commonwealth when this kind of things happen or a high official in the government faces this kind of charges. But at the same time, I feel for his family,” said Palacios
House Floor Leader Joseph N. Camacho, who watched yesterday’s court hearing, said he was there to show his support to the Villagomez family, especially to the lieutenant governor’s mother.
“I understand that this is a family crisis. As an attorney I understand the procedures and we’ll let the procedures take place,” Camacho said.
