Duterte’s Flight to ICC Marks Significant Turn in Human Rights Inquiry

This article discusses the flight of former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte to the International Criminal Court following his arrest. Delayed in Dubai, the plane is expected in Rotterdam, where he will face charges for alleged crimes against humanity related to a violent anti-drug campaign during his presidency. Protests are ongoing, and his daughter has flown to Amsterdam without disclosed plans.

Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s flight to the International Criminal Court (ICC) has taken off for Rotterdam after a delay during a layover in Dubai. Duterte was arrested in Manila on Tuesday, marking a significant advancement in the ICC’s investigation into alleged crimes against humanity linked to his controversial anti-drug campaign.

Originally scheduled to arrive at Rotterdam airport around 0600 GMT, the flight experienced delays and is now expected to land around 1625 GMT. A source from the ICC confirmed that the plane has departed. Protests against Duterte occurred outside the court in The Hague, with demonstrators displaying banners and a mask representing him as a vampire.

Duterte received medical attention during the stop in Dubai; images were shown by ABS-CBN News depicting police doctors monitoring him on an airplane bed. A Philippine National Police representative stated that these medical checks were standard to ensure routine monitoring of vital signs.

Sara Duterte, the vice president and Duterte’s daughter, boarded her own flight to Amsterdam, though details regarding her intentions during this visit remain unspecified. The ICC’s press office refrained from commenting on the matter, while Duterte’s legal representatives have not responded to inquiries.

Duterte, now 79, may become the first former Asian head of state to stand trial at the ICC. Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr confirmed that Duterte’s flight was bound for The Hague, enabling the former president to confront charges of crimes against humanity associated with his aggressive drug prohibition efforts.

The anti-drug campaign characterized Duterte’s presidency from 2016 until 2022. Reports indicate that official police statistics reflect 6,200 deaths during these operations, though human rights activists claim actual figures are significantly higher. A former lawyer for Duterte stated that the legal team will convene to determine the best course of action regarding their client’s situation.

Moreover, Duterte’s youngest daughter, Veronica, intends to file a habeas corpus request with the Philippine Supreme Court, seeking the government’s intervention to return her father.

The journey of former President Rodrigo Duterte to the International Criminal Court signifies a pivotal moment in the ICC’s investigations into alleged human rights violations. Protests and medical concerns illustrate the complexities surrounding his anticipated trial. As this situation evolves, the implications for Duterte and the Philippines remain significant, with potential legal ramifications that may resonate internationally.

Original Source: gazette.com