Next month's impeachment trial against CNMI governor Ralph Torres is stirring already heightened political rivalries ahead of the elections later this year.
On Friday the governor's camp made a failed attempt to quash the proceedings on technicalities and pending the resolution of some contention around the prosecution team the trial is set to go ahead early next month.
There are six articles of impeachment against the governor for alleged commission of felonies, corruption, and neglect of duty, in violation of the CNMI Constitution.
Joining me is our CNMI correspondent Mark Rabago.
Welcome back on Pacific Waves Mark, if you can please start by taking us briefly back through the events leading up to this point.
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Governor Ralph Torres signs the Budget Bill into law Photo: CNMI govt