As she prepares to down from her post in July 27, Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales said that she had already ruled out any talk about her entering politics.
“No political plans. I’m just tickling some people kapag sinabi kong my door is closed but the window is open. That’s not true. I am not up for politics,” she said.
Morales said this was the same answer she has given to some people who were trying to convince her to run for an elective position.
I’m decided not to join politics. Siguro naman I deserve to take a prolonged rest,” she said.
But at the same time, Morales said that she is hoping someone as competent and honest as she is would replace her at the Office of the Ombudsman.
“I want a man who know what he is doing and who is honest, too. It would such be a waste of time if a corrupt one would replace me,” she said in a public forum in Pasig City.
Morales said she was proud to say that she has been an honest Ombudsman.
“Now competence, may be the public could judge me,” she added.
She also called on her successor to continue the reforms that she has started at the Ombudsman.
“As the fifth Ombudsman, with a light heart, I am confident of the reforms and the people I will be leaving the institution with. For the incoming leadership, the only option is to take care of these people who bore much of the pain and gain of integrity work,” she said.
Morales has served as Ombudsman for the last seven years.
On July 20, the Judicial and Bar Council will select on its shortlist the candidate to head the Office of the Ombudsman.
Known for her feisty character, and no-nonsense statements, Morales reminded people to speak up for what they believe is right and never fail to express opposition regardless of its possible repercussions.
“Kailangan maglakas-loob ka. Matatakot ka, matatakot ka na mapatay? Takot ka na matanggal sa opisina, takot na walang hanapbuhay? You have no business being in the government if you’re scared because of those matters. Lakasan mo ang loob mo. Hindi puwede na duduwag duwag ka,” Morales said.
Morales’ criticisms against the government’s war on drugs has earned the ire of President Rodrigo Duterte in several occasions in the past.