International Criminal Court Opens Hearing on Philippines’ President Duterte’s Crimes Against Humanity
The Hague: Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte failed to attend in person at the International Criminal Court (ICC) on Friday at the opening of the crimes against humanity hearing over his deadly crackdown on narcotics.
The 79-year-old, the first ex-Asian head of state to face charges at the ICC, followed a videolink during a short hearing to inform him of the crimes he is alleged to have committed, as well as his rights as a defendant.
Duterte’s Lawyer Claims "Abduction"
Sounding frail and wearing a blue suit and tie, he spoke briefly to confirm his name and date of birth. Presiding Judge Iulia Motoc allowed him to follow proceedings in absentia due to his long flight to The Hague. His lawyer, Salvador Medialdea, told the court his client had been "abducted from his country."
"He was summarily transported to The Hague. To lawyers, it’s extrajudicial rendition. For less legal minds, it’s pure and simple kidnapping," Medialdea said.
Duterte’s Health Issues
Medialdea also said Duterte was suffering "debilitating medical issues," adding: "Other than to identify himself, he is not able to contribute to this hearing." Duterte appeared sleepy during the proceedings, closing his eyes frequently for long periods.
Charges of Murder and Crimes Against Humanity
Duterte stands accused of the crime against humanity of murder over his years-long campaign against drug users and dealers that rights groups said killed thousands.
The prosecutor’s application for his arrest alleged that Duterte’s crimes were "part of a widespread and systematic attack directed against the civilian population in the Philippines." "Potentially tens of thousands of killings were perpetrated," the prosecutor alleged of the campaign that targeted mostly poor men, often without proof they were linked to drugs.
Support and Opposing Reactions
Victims’ families have welcomed the trial as a chance for justice, while Duterte supporters believe he was "kidnapped" and sent to The Hague amid a spectacular fall-out with the ruling Marcos family. A group of family members, lawyers, and human rights activists was to gather in Manila to watch a livestream of the ICC hearing.
International Law Expert’s Analysis
According to international law experts, his whirlwind arrest and surrender to the ICC offers a welcome boon to the embattled court, which is being attacked from all sides and sanctioned by the United States. "I see the arrest and handing over of Duterte as a gift at an important moment in time," said Willem van Genugten, Professor of International Law at Tilburg University in The Netherlands.
Next Steps
The court set a date of September 23 for the next stage of the process, a hearing to confirm the charges. At the confirming of charges hearing, a suspect can challenge the prosecutor’s evidence. Only after that will the court decide whether to press ahead with a trial, a process that could take several months or even years.
Conclusion
The ICC’s decision to open the hearing marks a significant step towards accountability for the alleged crimes committed by President Duterte during his presidency. The case has sparked a mix of reactions, with some supporting the trial as a chance for justice, while others believe it is a political witch-hunt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the charges against President Duterte?
A: He is accused of murder and crimes against humanity over his campaign against drug users and dealers.
Q: What is the significance of the ICC’s decision to open the hearing?
A: It marks a significant step towards accountability for the alleged crimes committed by President Duterte during his presidency.
Q: What is the next step in the process?
A: The court will hold a hearing to confirm the charges, after which it will decide whether to press ahead with a trial.