Rodrigo Duterte Participates in ICC Hearing Remotely Following Arrest

Former President Rodrigo Duterte attended an ICC hearing via video link due to fatigue from his flight to the Netherlands. He was taken into custody following an ICC warrant amid allegations of crimes against humanity related to his anti-drug campaign that resulted in numerous extrajudicial killings.

Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte participated in an International Criminal Court (ICC) hearing via video link due to exhaustion from his long flight to the Netherlands. During the session, presiding Judge Iulia Motoc addressed Duterte’s fatigue from the journey and noted the significant time difference he experienced.

Duterte appeared in court wearing a blue suit and tie, seeming frail as he confirmed his identity and age.

Upon his arrival in the Netherlands from Manila, Duterte was taken into ICC custody following an arrest based on an ICC warrant. He faces serious allegations of crimes against humanity linked to his controversial anti-drug campaign, which allegedly involved systematic attacks on civilians leading to thousands of deaths attributed to extrajudicial killings carried out by death squads he is claimed to have organized and armed.

In conclusion, Rodrigo Duterte’s participation in the ICC hearing via video link underscores the seriousness of the charges he faces, including crimes against humanity connected to his anti-drug policy. The judge recognized his tiring travel from the Philippines, which reflects the significant consequences of his actions while in office. As the legal proceedings unfold, the implications of these accusations will be closely monitored by the international community.

Original Source: www.scmp.com