Although many lawmakers have been quoted as saying they believe a motion of censure rather than articles of impeachment would gain more votes in the House, the Republicans said the committee majority is following its own course and that there has been little if any coordination with the party leadership.

CNN: House panel reportedly draws up Clinton impeachment charges

The two main political parties, Colorado and Liberal, had put aside their differences and voted in favour of the motion to begin the impeachment trial.

BBC: Paraguay President Fernando Lugo impeached by congress

Through her lawyers, Dr Bandaranayake rejected four counts of misconduct in an impeachment motion formally submitted before parliament on Tuesday.

BBC: Asia