The International Criminal Court judges have determined that former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte is capable of standing trial, following a delay in a previous hearing due to concerns about his health. Duterte is facing charges of crimes against humanity related to numerous killings during his tenure, both as a city mayor and later as president, under the guise of a war on drugs.
Despite claims of Duterte’s declining health, his lawyers argued for his incapacity, leading to the postponement of his court appearance in The Hague. After a medical evaluation, the court found Duterte fit to participate in the legal proceedings, which have now been rescheduled for February 23.
The panel overseeing the assessment included experts in geriatric neurology and psychiatry who conducted various tests on Duterte. His lead lawyer expressed disappointment at the ruling and intends to appeal, alleging a lack of opportunity to present their own medical evidence.
Rights organizations and victims’ families welcomed Duterte’s arrest and the subsequent court decision as a significant step towards justice and accountability. The ICC prosecutors claim that Duterte authorized violent acts, including murder, against alleged criminals, as part of his anti-drug campaign.
Despite the Philippines’ withdrawal from the court under Duterte’s presidency, judges rejected the argument that the ICC lacked jurisdiction. The death toll during Duterte’s term remains disputed, ranging from police-reported figures to significantly higher estimates by human rights groups.