Judges at the International Criminal Court (ICC) have ruled that Rodrigo Duterte, the 80-year-old former president of the Philippines, is physically and mentally capable of participating in the pre-trial proceedings for crimes against humanity related to the drug war. The court rejected the defense's claim that he has cognitive impairments and set the confirmation of charges hearing for 23 February.
The ICC judges determined that Rodrigo Duterte, former president of the Philippines, is physically and mentally fit to participate in the pre-trial phase, dismissing the defense's petition that he suffers from cognitive decline.
Duterte's legal team, currently detained in The Hague, argued that the 80-year-old former leader could not stand trial due to brain health issues. However, the judges stated in a release that independent medical experts confirmed Duterte remains capable of understanding and engaging in his case.
"The court is satisfied legally that Duterte can effectively exercise his rights within the justice process and is therefore fit to participate in the proceedings," the ruling said, adding that readiness does not require the individual to possess full cognitive capacity, only basic understanding of court procedures.
Cases where the ICC finds a suspect, even elderly, entirely unfit to stand trial are extremely rare. To date, the ICC has never ruled any suspect wholly unfit despite similar requests from other defendants.
Michael Kofman, Duterte's lawyer, expressed disappointment with the ruling, stating the defense was denied the chance to present its own medical evidence or challenge the independent doctors' assessments. He announced plans to appeal, alleging Duterte's right to a fair trial was violated.
ICC prosecutors are preparing to charge Duterte with three counts of murder, considered crimes against humanity, involving over 75 victims. They allege Duterte orchestrated, funded, and armed "death squads" during the drug war while president from 2016 to 2022.
Police data reports approximately 6,200 deaths in anti-drug operations, but human rights activists claim the actual toll is much higher. ICC prosecutors estimate the number of fatalities could reach 30,000.
Duterte, who was arrested and transferred to The Hague last March, continues to insist he authorized police to kill only in self-defense. He has repeatedly told supporters he is "ready to rot in jail" if it means making the Philippines drug-free.