DFA to junk Miriam’s bid

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) would formally withdraw the candidacy of Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago for a seat in the United Nations’ international tribunal that will try war crimes in the former Yugoslavia.

Acting Foreign Affairs Secretary Lauro Baja Jr. said Santiago faxed to the DFA a two-sentence letter stating she was no longer interested in the tribunal.

Baja said Santiago’s nomination will be withdrawn from the UN office in New York after Malacañang’s approval.

The other day, Santiago lashed at what she felt was a move by the DFA to intimidate her into choosing between her bid and re-election.

But Baja said he merely informed her that as a UN judge, she needs to stay for at least three months each year, for four years, in the Hague, Netherlands. — Aurea Calica