ICC Denies Duterte’s Pre-Trial Release Request

ICC Judges Deny Duterte’s Bid for Release Ahead of War Crimes TrialFormer Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte will remain in custody. The International Criminal Court (ICC) rejected his request for interim release on Friday. The decision was based on court documents made public in The Hague.Judges ruled that detention was necessary to ensure his appearance at trial. They also stated his release could endanger the court’s ongoing proceedings. This is a significant setback for the former leader’s defense team.

Defense Arguments for Release Dismissed by Court

Duterte’s lawyers had argued for his release on two main grounds. They claimed the octogenarian suffers from cognitive impairment. They also asserted he was not a flight risk and would not obstruct the investigation.According to Reuters, the judges considered these arguments. However, they found the alleged medical conditions did not eliminate the risks of his release. The court emphasized that ensuring his presence at trial was paramount.The arrest warrant connects Duterte to murders during his “war on drugs.” Thousands of alleged drug offenders were killed during this campaign. Duterte maintains his arrest in March was unlawful.

Separate Ruling on Fitness for Trial Still Pending

The court is still considering a separate defense motion. This motion argues Duterte is unfit to stand trial entirely. No date has been set for that decision.Judges clarified these are two distinct legal issues. The question of fitness for trial is factually and legally separate from interim release. It remains rare for international courts to find suspects wholly unfit for trial, even with advanced age.This ruling keeps Duterte in the ICC detention centre as preparations continue. The case continues to draw significant international attention.

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The ICC’s firm stance underscores the gravity of the charges against the former president. This development ensures the legal process will proceed without delay. The Duterte case remains a pivotal test for international justice.

Thought you’d like to know

Why was Rodrigo Duterte arrested?

He was arrested on an ICC warrant in March. The warrant links him to murders committed during his anti-drug campaign in the Philippines. Thousands of alleged drug offenders were killed during this time.

What was the main reason the ICC denied his release?

Judges ruled his release could pose a flight risk. They also stated it might endanger the court’s investigation. His alleged medical conditions were deemed insufficient to remove these risks.

Is Duterte considered fit to stand trial?

The court has not yet decided on his overall fitness. A separate defense motion on that issue is still under review. The release denial is a separate legal matter from fitness for trial.

What happens next in the legal process?

Duterte remains in the ICC detention centre in The Hague. The court will now rule on the motion concerning his fitness for trial. No date has been set for that decision.

How has Duterte responded to the charges?

He has consistently maintained his innocence. He calls his arrest unlawful and tantamount to kidnapping. His legal team continues to challenge the court’s proceedings.