Duterte Faces ICC Allegations Amid Claims of Illness and Abduction

Rodrigo Duterte’s lawyer claims he was “abducted” to the ICC and is too ill to testify. While facing murder allegations related to his drug war, the court’s doctor assesses him as mentally fit. Duterte, who led the Philippines from 2016 to 2022, may set a precedent as the first Asian head of state to stand trial at the ICC. A confirmation hearing is anticipated in the months ahead, with a trial unlikely before 2026.

Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was characterized as having been “abducted” prior to his appearance at the International Criminal Court (ICC), where he faces allegations of murder. His lawyer articulated that Duterte is too ill to provide testimony and described the circumstances of his transfer to The Hague as “pure and simple kidnapping.” Duterte’s health issues were cited as severely debilitating, affecting his ability to participate in the proceedings.

Duterte, who is 79 years old, expressed his frailty through a video link from a detention unit in the Netherlands, where he was transported following his arrest under an ICC warrant for crimes against humanity. The presiding judge noted that a court doctor indicated Duterte was “fully mentally aware and fit” during an examination upon his arrival.

During his presidency from 2016 to 2022, allegations arose against Duterte for orchestrating large-scale extrajudicial killings, primarily targeting suspected drug dealers and users. He is accused of leading systematic attacks against the civilian population, facilitated by death squads that he allegedly formed and empowered. After arriving at Rotterdam airport, Duterte was directly transferred to a detention unit located near the ICC facility.

The judge recapped the charges against Duterte, although he was not prompted to enter a plea at this stage. Should the case advance, he is anticipated to be the first former Asian head of state tried by the ICC, which was established to prosecute serious international crimes such as war crimes and genocide. Duterte has previously reported a series of health concerns including a neuromuscular disorder and migraines.

Duterte’s surrender to the ICC is viewed as a significant achievement for Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan. Following this initial appearance, the ICC is expected to schedule a hearing to confirm the charges in several months, during which prosecutors will present evidence, leading to a possible trial projected to begin in early 2026.

In summary, former President Rodrigo Duterte faces significant legal challenges at the ICC, with accusations of crimes against humanity stemming from his controversial drug war policies. His defense claims debilitating health issues inhibit his ability to testify, while the court’s medical assessment contradicts this narrative. With the trajectory of this case potentially setting historical precedents, resolution is awaited in the coming months.

Original Source: gazette.com