In a recent development, judges at the International Criminal Court have determined that former Philippine leader Rodrigo Duterte is deemed fit to face trial after a previous hearing was postponed due to concerns about his health. Duterte is accused of crimes against humanity for his alleged role in numerous killings linked to his anti-drug campaign during his time as a city mayor and later as president.
The 80-year-old’s legal team had argued that his health was fragile and deteriorating while in the court’s custody. Duterte was apprehended in March and was initially scheduled to appear in court in September; however, the hearing was delayed to assess his ability to participate in the proceedings.
After a medical evaluation by a panel of experts in geriatric neurology and psychiatry, it was determined that Duterte is capable of exercising his legal rights and is fit for the upcoming pre-trial procedures, which have now been rescheduled for February 23.
Duterte’s lead counsel expressed disappointment with the ruling and intends to appeal, citing a lack of opportunity to present their own medical evidence and challenge the findings of the court-appointed professionals. Following Duterte’s arrest in March, rights groups and victims’ families welcomed the decision, viewing it as a step towards accountability and justice.
Prosecutors allege that Duterte sanctioned violent actions, including murder, against individuals suspected of criminal activities, such as drug dealing and usage. The ICC initially launched a preliminary investigation in 2018 into Duterte’s anti-drug campaign during his tenure as mayor and president.
Despite attempts to evade accountability by withdrawing from the ICC, judges dismissed Duterte’s legal team’s request to dismiss the case, emphasizing that countries cannot shield individuals from justice by withdrawing from the Rome Statute. Estimates of casualties during Duterte’s presidency range from over 6,000 reported by police to as high as 30,000 according to human rights organizations.