Five important conclusions about the conviction of Datu Sajid Islam Ampatuan

FORMER Maguindanao Governor Datu Sajid Islam Ampatuan has been sentenced to 12 years in prison for bribery and misuse of public funds, following his mismanagement of P400 million earmarked for vital farm-to-market road projects in 2009.

Here are the key points surrounding the recent conviction of former Maguindanao Governor Datu Sajid Islam Ampatuan:

The indictment and the conviction

Former Maguindanao Governor Datu Sajid Islam Ampatuan was found guilty of embezzlement and misuse of public funds in connection with the mismanagement of P400 million meant for the construction and rehabilitation of farm-to-market roads in 2009.

The Sandiganbayan Third Division sentenced him to 8 to 12 years in prison for violating the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.

Severe penalties imposed

In addition to his prison sentence, Ampatuan was given a harsher punishment: relusion perpetua (life imprisonment) for misuse of public funds, in addition to a fine of P393 million.

This amount represents the funds he mismanaged and which he must repay to the national government with interest at six percent per year until paid in full.

Disqualification from public office

The court’s ruling also includes a continued ban from holding any public office. This means that Ampatuan will be barred from participating in government roles or responsibilities for the rest of his life.

Co-suspect acquitted

Interestingly, Danny Taki Calib, Ampatuan’s co-accused in the case, was acquitted of all charges. This highlights the complexity of legal proceedings and how outcomes can vary for individuals involved in the same case.

History of graft beliefs

This conviction marks the sixth time Ampatuan has been found guilty of various corruption charges since October 2022. His repeated legal troubles underscore the persistent problems of corruption and mismanagement in local government, especially in regions like Maguindanao.