ICC Denies Duterte’s Appeal for Provisional Release
The International Criminal Court (ICC) Appeals Chamber has denied former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s request for provisional release from detention. The court announced its decision on Friday, rejecting all three arguments made by Duterte’s defense team. The judges noted significant risks of flight and the potential for Duterte to evade trial.
Details of the ICC Decision
Judge Luz del Carmen Ibanez Carranza, president of the ICC Appeals Chamber, confirmed the ruling. The chamber stressed that Duterte, as both a former president and the newly elected mayor of Davao City, possesses considerable political influence, which could jeopardize the legal proceedings against him.
Reactions to the Ruling
The National Union of Peoples’ Lawyers (NUPL), representing victims’ families from Duterte’s controversial war on drugs, welcomed the ICC’s decision. They stated that Duterte’s detention is vital for ensuring the safety of victims and witnesses, preventing intimidation or tampering with evidence.
- NUPL Statement: The NUPL emphasized that the decision reinforces the integrity of the judicial process.
- Duterte Family Reaction: Vice President Sara Duterte, the former president’s daughter, expressed acceptance of the ruling and continued support for her father.
Background of Charges Against Duterte
Duterte is facing accusations of crimes against humanity linked to his administration’s violent anti-drug campaign. This campaign lasted from his time as mayor of Davao City and continued throughout his presidency from 2016 to 2022. Prosecutors alleged that Duterte authorized severe acts of violence, including extrajudicial killings targeting alleged drug dealers and users.
- Death Toll Estimates:
- National police: over 6,000
- Human rights organizations: up to 30,000
Duterte has been in detention at The Hague for more than eight months. His legal representatives argue that his health has declined, making his continuous detention during the proceedings inhumane. However, family visits report he is in good spirits.
Legal Proceedings Timeline
In March 2018, ICC prosecutors initiated a preliminary investigation into the killings under Duterte’s regime. By March 2019, the Philippines officially withdrew from the ICC, coinciding with the start of the active judicial process against him.
In closing remarks regarding the judicial integrity, Kristina Conti, a human rights lawyer representing victims’ families, expressed confidence in the ICC’s decision. She highlighted the compelling evidence supporting the continuation of Duterte’s detention.
