Lakas laments ‘double-dealing’ comment of Pimentel

The ruling Lakas-NUCD today charged Senate President Aquilino "Nene’ Pimentel of pitting the administration of President Arroyo against ousted former President Estrada in order to keep his Senate presidency and gain political clout on both sides to further his own political agenda.

Lakas-NUCD Executive Director Joey Rufino slammed what he termed as Sen. Pimentel’s "dirty political spadework and deception," saying that the solon intends to pull off a ride on the political coattails of both camps to ensure his own political survival.

"Some may say there’s nothing wrong with what he intends to accomplish but coming from a politician and Senate leader who fashions himself as an undisputed advocate of principled politics Pimentel’s actions reek of political hypocrisy and deception," Rufino said.

The Lakas official said Sen. Pimentel’s recent position on the Supreme Court’s proclamation on the legitimacy of President Macapagal-Arroyo has clearly exposed his "true color" as an opportunist who projects himself as a fence sitter but hits the side that provides comfort to his Senate position in order for the government to take notice of his supposed belligerent stand thus reap the benefits from both ends of the political Court, Rufino said.

Sen. Pimentel was earlier quoted in an interview at the Sulo Hotel saying that he favors that the High Court just sit on the issue of legitimacy raised by the lawyers of ex-President Estrada, contending that the disgraced leader has kept his legitimate status.