Former Philippines President Duterte Appears at ICC Facing War on Drugs Charges
Former Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte appeared via video link at the ICC, facing murder charges in connection with his notorious “war on drugs.” His appearance follows a dramatic arrest and is significant for the victims of his violent policies. Despite claims of poor health, the court found him fit for proceedings. Amnesty International hailed this as a hopeful moment for justice for victims’ families.
Former President Rodrigo Duterte of the Philippines has recently appeared via video link at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague, where he is facing murder charges stemming from his controversial “war on drugs.” During this appearance, which took place at approximately 2:30 p.m. local time, he was informed of the charges against him and his rights under the court’s procedures.
The 79-year-old Duterte, who recently underwent a dramatic arrest in Manila, has been accused of committing the crime of murder as a crime against humanity amid a violent campaign that resulted in thousands of deaths. His long travel journey resulted in the court permitting him to attend the hearing via remote means, as noted by presiding Judge Iulia Antoanella Motoc.
Duterte was made to board a flight from Manila and arrived in the Netherlands after a significant stop in Dubai to receive medical attention. His lawyer, Salvador Medialdea, labelled the transfer as an “extrajudicial rendition,” characterizing it as a form of kidnapping. Medialdea also expressed concerns over Duterte’s medical condition, which he claimed could hinder his participation in the proceedings. However, Judge Motoc asserted that Duterte was found to be mentally aware and competent by the court’s physician.
Charges against Duterte include murders allegedly committed from November 1, 2011, to March 16, 2019, during which he served as both President and Mayor of Davao City. The ICC indicated it has “reasonable grounds” to believe that Duterte is responsible for at least the murder of 43 individuals between 2011 and 2019, primarily targeting alleged drug offenders.
Duterte’s administration was marked by a brutal anti-drug campaign, with police data reporting around 6,000 fatalities, while human rights organizations estimate the actual toll could reach 30,000. The victims largely included young men from low-income neighborhoods, killed as part of the crackdown against drug dealers.
Despite Duterte withdrawing the Philippines from the ICC in March 2019, the court retains jurisdiction over crimes committed during his presidency. Amnesty International announced that Duterte’s court appearance signifies the beginning of accountability for grave human rights violations. They stated that this day represents hope for the families of victims and advocates of human rights.
In a video message released shortly before his departure to the Netherlands, Duterte expressed his determination to continue serving his country despite the legal challenges he faces. He stated that he had urged police and military personnel to carry out their duties and would assume all responsibility for their actions. This appearance at the ICC could set a significant precedent for accountability regarding human rights violations committed under his regime.
The first video appearance of former President Rodrigo Duterte at the ICC marks a pivotal moment in international law and accountability for human rights violations. Facing serious charges related to his administration’s violent campaign against drugs, Duterte’s case highlights the challenges in addressing extrajudicial killings. Human rights advocates view this as a hopeful development for victims seeking justice, despite Duterte’s earlier attempts to evade the court’s jurisdiction. The proceedings ahead will undoubtedly be closely monitored as a test of international legal principles.
Original Source: www.kadn.com
