Phew

Well, they did it. They couldn't withdraw him from the race, because the last day to do that was January 5. But they did make sure that until and unless he's acquitted (okay, the press release says "until charges ... are resolved"), and he's elected (which is pretty doubtful right now), he will not be a representative of the CPC.

Net loss: 1 seat.

Net gain: immeasurable credibility.

I'll take that trade-off any day.