The International Criminal Court (ICC) has opened a preliminary examination to confirm allegations against former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte. Prosecutors state he had a direct role in approving and selecting targets for killings in the anti-drug campaign.
On Monday, 23 Feb 2024 GMT+7, the ICC began a preliminary examination against 80-year-old Rodrigo Duterte, former president of the Philippines. Prosecutors allege he was directly involved in the killing of suspected drug offenders, constituting crimes against humanity.
ICC Deputy Prosecutor Mame Mandiaye Niang told the court this one-week examination serves as a reminder that "no one in power is above the law." He stated Duterte played a key role in extrajudicial killings, from his time as mayor of Davao City through his presidency, not only setting policies but also personally approving murders and selecting specific victims.
Prosecutor Julian Nichols presented several video clips in which Duterte threatens to kill criminals, saying, "He repeatedly declared he would kill people. He said it, and he did it. That is who he is."
Duterte's lawyer, Nicholas Coffman, rejected all allegations, calling them seriously flawed and politically motivated. Although he acknowledged his client was "extreme" and often used "boastful, harsh, and exaggerated" language, he insisted Duterte always emphasized adherence to the law. He claimed the prosecutors selectively quoted speeches to attack Duterte.
The prosecutor charged Duterte with three counts of crimes against humanity related to at least 76 murders, though the actual number is believed to be in the thousands. The charges include 19 murders from 2013-2016 during his tenure as mayor of Davao City; 14 "high-value target" murders from 2016-2017 as president; and 43 murders from 2016-2018 during nationwide operations against drug users and small-time dealers.
Outside the court in The Hague, Netherlands, and in Manila, the atmosphere was tense and divided. Families of victims gathered to watch the live broadcast, hoping for justice. One victim described the moment as "historic," though they expressed disappointment that Duterte did not appear in court personally. The court allowed this at the defense's request, despite ruling he is in good health.
Meanwhile, Duterte’s supporters viewed the ICC’s trial of the former Philippine leader as a "slap in the face" and a violation of his human rights. Duterte has been detained at the ICC's Scheveningen detention center since his arrest in Manila in March last year.
After this week's examination, the judges will have 60 days to issue a written decision on whether there is sufficient evidence to proceed with a full trial.
Source: AFP