Rodrigo Duterte attended an ICC hearing via video link, citing fatigue after traveling from the Philippines to the Netherlands. He was arrested under an ICC warrant and faces charges of crimes against humanity related to extrajudicial killings during his administration’s anti-drug campaign.
Rodrigo Duterte, the former President of the Philippines, attended an International Criminal Court (ICC) hearing via video link due to fatigue following his trip from the Philippines to the Netherlands. Presiding Judge Iulia Motoc noted that Duterte had endured a long journey across considerable time zones, allowing for the remote participation in the session.
Duterte, who appeared in a blue suit and showed signs of frailty, confirmed his identity and age during the hearing. He arrived in the Netherlands on a flight from Manila on Wednesday and was subsequently taken into ICC custody after being arrested on an existing ICC warrant.
The ICC prosecutors have levied serious charges against Duterte, alleging he committed crimes against humanity through a systematic assault on the civilian population. It is reported that thousands of alleged drug dealers and users were killed during his controversial anti-drug campaign, which involved death squads that he allegedly established and armed to execute widespread extrajudicial killings.
In summary, Rodrigo Duterte’s participation in the ICC hearing via video link highlights his frail condition following his arrest in the Netherlands. He faces serious allegations of crimes against humanity linked to his administration’s violent drug campaign. This situation marks a significant moment in international law and accountability for leadership actions.
Original Source: www.scmp.com
