International Criminal Court Takes Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte into Custody
ISTANBUL, March 13 (BERNAMA-Anadolu) – Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was taken into custody by the International Criminal Court (ICC) on Wednesday, according to a statement from the court, Anadolu Ajansi reported.
Background to the Custody
Local media reported that his supporters were waiting for his arrival at the Scheveningen detention cell in The Hague, Netherlands, with Philippine flags and singing the national anthem.
Reasons for Custody
After announcing his custody, the statement said the court found "reasonable grounds to believe that Duterte is individually responsible as an indirect co-perpetrator of the crime against humanity of murder, allegedly committed in the Philippines between November 1, 2011 and March 16, 2019."
The court also stated that there were "reasonable grounds to believe that he, jointly with and through other persons, agreed to kill individuals they identified as suspected criminals or persons having criminal propensities, including but not limited to drug offenders, initially in Davao (southern Philippines) and subsequently throughout the country."
Next Steps
The statement also said a hearing would be scheduled in due course for Duterte’s initial appearance before the court, covering such matters as the language he would use during the proceedings.
"The Chamber will also satisfy itself that Mr. Duterte has been informed of the crime that he is alleged to have committed, and of his rights under the Rome Statute (‘the Statute’), which is the Court’s founding treaty," the statement added.
Reactions and Support
Osvaldo Zavala Giler, the ICC registrar, thanked Filipino authorities "for their commitment to upholding international accountability mechanisms, and the authorities of the Host State, the Netherlands, for their cooperation and support," according to the statement.
Journey to The Hague
Duterte was put on a chartered flight to The Hague to face trial on Tuesday after he was arrested at Manila International Airport upon his arrival from Hong Kong. The plane made a stopover in Dubai before continuing to The Hague.
Support from Family
Current Philippine Vice-President Sara Duterte, the ex-leader’s daughter, also left on Wednesday for The Hague to help arrange a legal team for her father.
Conclusion
The ICC’s decision to take Duterte into custody marks a significant development in the ongoing investigation into alleged human rights violations in the Philippines. The case is a testament to the court’s commitment to upholding international accountability and ensuring that those responsible for heinous crimes are held accountable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the reason for Duterte’s custody?
A: The ICC found "reasonable grounds to believe that Duterte is individually responsible as an indirect co-perpetrator of the crime against humanity of murder, allegedly committed in the Philippines between November 1, 2011 and March 16, 2019."
Q: What are the allegations against Duterte?
A: The ICC alleges that Duterte, jointly with and through other persons, agreed to kill individuals they identified as suspected criminals or persons having criminal propensities, including but not limited to drug offenders, initially in Davao (southern Philippines) and subsequently throughout the country.
Q: What is the next step in the proceedings?
A: A hearing will be scheduled in due course for Duterte’s initial appearance before the court, covering such matters as the language he would use during the proceedings.