Former President Rodrigo Duterte’s flight to the ICC for trial has departed for Rotterdam after a delay. He was arrested in Manila amid investigations into crimes against humanity linked to his anti-drug campaign. Protesters gathered in The Hague, while Duterte’s family and legal team pursue further actions regarding his case.
Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s flight to the International Criminal Court (ICC) has embarked for Rotterdam, as informed by a reliable source on Wednesday. This development follows a brief delay during a layover in Dubai, with the plane now expected to arrive in Rotterdam around 1625 GMT, after an initial schedule for 0600 GMT.
Duterte, who occupied the presidency from 2016 to 2022, was apprehended in Manila on Tuesday as part of the ICC’s ongoing investigation into alleged crimes against humanity related to his controversial anti-drug campaign, which reportedly resulted in thousands of deaths.
Approximately twenty protesters opposed to Duterte demonstrated outside the ICC courthouse in The Hague, equipped with signs and masks depicting him as a vampire. Meanwhile, Philippine broadcaster ABS-CBN News reported that Duterte received medical evaluations during the layover in Dubai, which were characterized by Philippine National Police officials as standard routine checks.
Sara Duterte, the vice president and Duterte’s daughter, boarded a flight to Amsterdam, although her specific intentions regarding her visit to the Netherlands remain undisclosed. The ICC’s press office has refrained from commenting, and Duterte’s legal representation has yet to issue a statement regarding his situation.
At 79 years of age, Duterte may become the first Asian former head of state to face trial at the ICC. Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr remarked that the ongoing journey would enable Duterte to confront charges associated with his administration’s aggressive anti-drug initiative. Official accounts cite approximately 6,200 fatalities during Duterte’s term, while activists contend that the actual figures significantly exceed this total.
Legal counsel for Duterte, Silvestre Bello, indicated plans for the legal team to strategize regarding their next steps and to determine whether they will have access to the former president during legal proceedings. Furthermore, plans are in motion by Duterte’s youngest daughter, Veronica, to pursue a habeas corpus request with the Philippine Supreme Court to facilitate his return to the Philippines.
In conclusion, the apprehension of ex-President Rodrigo Duterte marks a significant moment in international law, as he embarks on a journey to face charges at the ICC. His controversial anti-drug campaign, which led to numerous deaths, continues to evoke strong reactions. As developments unfold regarding his legal representation and the actions taken by his family, the outcome of this case may set a precedent for accountability among former heads of state.
Original Source: gazette.com
