Diplomat assures of ‘peaceful’ US presidential transition

By Raymond Carl Dela Cruz

January 11, 2021, 5:49 pm

<p>US Embassy Chargé d’Affaires John Law <em>(Photo courtesy of the US Embassy in the Philippines)</em></p>

US Embassy Chargé d’Affaires John Law (Photo courtesy of the US Embassy in the Philippines)

MANILA – United States (US) Embassy Chargé d’Affaires John Law on Monday has assured that the presidential transition in Washington D.C. on January 20 will happen peacefully “as it has for over two centuries.”

In a statement, Law condemned the US Capitol attack last January 6, noting that the actions of the rioters “do not define our country, our principles and our ideals”.

“Leaders across our political spectrum have condemned last week’s criminal behavior and called for accountability. As Secretary of State (Mike) Pompeo stated, this type of lawlessness and destruction is unacceptable,” Law said.

He thanked those in the Philippines who sent “heartfelt messages of support” that symbolized the “strong” friendship between the two countries.

“American democracy has repeatedly proven resilient and strong. With the support of steadfast friends like the Philippines, I am confident that will continue to be true,” Law said.

Thousands of supporters of US President Donald Trump marched to the US Capitol to protest the November presidential election results as the US Congress began counting the Electoral College votes.

However, the protest turned into a riot that resulted in the vandalization, destruction, looting, and occupation of the US Capitol for several hours. Four rioters and one police officer died in the incident.

On January 7 at around 3:41 a.m. (US time), the US Congress certified Joseph Biden, Jr.'s win as president, hours after a mob at the Capitol interrupted the process.

Biden is expected to be sworn-in as the 46th president of the United States on January 20. (PNA)

Comments