Rodrigo Duterte Appears Before ICC via Video Link After Arrest in The Hague
Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has made his first appearance before the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague via video link, facing charges of crimes against humanity over his controversial and deadly war on drugs. Duterte, the first former Asian head of state to face such charges at the ICC, appeared frail yet composed, confirming his identity during the preliminary hearing.
The 79-year-old ex-leader is accused of orchestrating a widespread and systematic campaign against drug users and dealers that led to the deaths of as many as 30,000 people, according to human rights organizations. ICC prosecutors argue that these killings were part of a deliberate attack on the civilian population, often without proof of drug involvement. Duterte, who was handed over to the court by Philippine authorities, appeared to acknowledge responsibility in a video message, saying: *“It was my job, and I am responsible.”*
His defense team, however, fiercely opposed the proceedings, with lawyer Salvador Medialdea claiming Duterte’s arrest was an act of “extrajudicial rendition” or “kidnapping.” Medialdea further argued that Duterte was suffering from serious medical conditions, limiting his ability to participate in the trial.
The dramatic arrest comes amid rising political tensions in the Philippines. Duterte’s once-powerful alliance with the Marcos family has crumbled, with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. now at odds with Vice President Sara Duterte—Duterte’s daughter—who is herself facing an impeachment trial. Sara Duterte, who called her father’s arrest “oppression and persecution,” has traveled to the Netherlands to support him, even attempting a last-minute bid to move the hearing.
International human rights advocates have hailed Duterte’s arrest as a major victory for justice, reinforcing the principle that no leader is above the law. Prosecutor Karim Khan emphasized that while Duterte is presumed innocent until proven guilty, this moment marks a significant step in holding world leaders accountable for human rights abuses.
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