Duterte's appeal for release denied by International Criminal Court

Nov. 28 (UPI) -- Rodrigo Duterte, the former president of the Philippines, will remain detained in the Netherlands after the International Criminal Court rejected his request for release on health grounds. At 80 years old, Duterte faces accusations of crimes against humanity, specifically concerning alleged extrajudicial killings of suspected drug users and dealers during his tenure as president and as mayor of Davao City.

Duterte was apprehended in Manila in March under an ICC arrest warrant, following the court's formal investigation launched in September 2021 into his anti-drug campaign. His petition for release was previously denied in October, and Fridays ruling upheld that decision on appeal.

Judge Luz del Carmen Ibez Carranza stated in The Hague courtroom that Dutertes legal team failed to demonstrate that the October ruling by a lower chamber was unreasonable. The court had previously determined that Duterte posed a flight risk and might intimidate witnesses if granted freedom, as reported by the South China Morning Post.

According to court documents, Duterte allegedly ordered and sanctioned violent acts, including killings, against individuals accused of criminal activity, including drug offenses. Estimates of fatalities during his administration vary: national police report around 6,000 deaths, while human rights organizations claim up to 30,000.

Relatives of alleged victims gathered in Quezon City, Metro Manila, holding signs while watching a broadcast of the ICC Appeals Chamber hearing.

The International Criminal Court building in The Hague, Netherlands, serves as the location of these proceedings.

During his first presidential term, Donald Trump developed a cordial relationship with Duterte, even visiting the Philippines.

Author’s Analysis: Duterte Remains Detained Amid ICC Proceedings

The International Criminal Court’s decision to keep Rodrigo Duterte in detention in the Netherlands underscores the seriousness of the allegations he faces. At 80 years old, Duterte remains accused of crimes against humanity related to alleged extrajudicial killings during his tenure as president and mayor.

The ICC emphasized that previous rulings correctly assessed Duterte as a potential flight risk and a threat to witness integrity. His legal team’s appeal failed to demonstrate that these conclusions were unreasonable, effectively maintaining the status quo.

Estimates of the deaths linked to Duterte’s anti-drug campaign vary widely, from official police figures of around 6,000 to human rights organizations’ claims of up to 30,000. The court’s ongoing investigation continues to weigh this evidence against the legal standards for crimes against humanity.

Public reaction in the Philippines, particularly from relatives of alleged victims, remains highly engaged, as seen in gatherings to follow the ICC appeals hearing. The case highlights both the international accountability mechanisms for former heads of state and the continued scrutiny of Duterte’s legacy.

Sources:

• Duterte denied release in appeal to International Criminal Court