Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has arrived in the Netherlands for custody at the ICC after being arrested on charges of murder related to his war on drugs. He expresses responsibility for his actions while facing potential life imprisonment. The arrest has been welcomed by victims’ advocates, although pro-Duterte supporters protest against the ICC’s jurisdiction.
Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has arrived in the Netherlands, where he is now in the custody of the International Criminal Court (ICC) following an arrest warrant for murder as a crime against humanity linked to his controversial war on drugs. The ICC confirmed his surrender in an official statement, emphasizing the significance of this event for victims of his policies.
Duterte was apprehended near Manila and subsequently flew to the Netherlands. In a video prior to landing, he stated, “I am the one who led our law enforcement and military. I said that I will protect you and I will be responsible for all of this.” He acknowledged the impending legal proceedings but assured his commitment to continue serving the nation.
Currently, Duterte is detained in a facility on the Dutch coast, awaiting his initial court appearance in The Hague, which could take place shortly. If found guilty, he faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment, but he has pledged to contest the charges.
Reports indicate that the ICC warrant cites at least 43 individuals killed amid Duterte’s drug war, with varying death toll estimates ranging from 6,000 to 30,000. Gilbert Andres, a lawyer for victims, expressed approval of the arrest, labeling it a pivotal moment for international criminal justice, asserting, “It means that no one is above the law.”
Amnesty International echoed these sentiments, with representative Jerrie Abella calling the arrest a significant and overdue step toward justice for countless victims. Contrastingly, a contingent of pro-Duterte supporters protested outside the ICC, rejecting the court’s jurisdiction, stemming from Duterte’s withdrawal of the Philippines from the ICC in 2019, prior to the criminal inquiry.
The arrival of Rodrigo Duterte in the Netherlands marks a significant turning point in international criminal justice, as he faces serious allegations stemming from his presidency. This event has drawn mixed reactions, with advocates for justice celebrating the potential for accountability, while some supporters dismiss the ICC’s authority. Moving forward, the legal proceedings will be pivotal in establishing the precedents of responsibility for leaders concerning human rights violations.
Original Source: www.dw.com
