Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has been arrested by Interpol on charges of crimes against humanity related to his anti-narcotics campaign. The ICC is investigating thousands of deaths attributed to his controversial policies between 2011 and 2019. Despite attempts to suspend investigations, the ICC’s ruling facilitates the ongoing scrutiny of Duterte’s administration.
Rodrigo Duterte, the former President of the Philippines, was detained at Manila’s international airport following his return from a political rally in Hong Kong. The arrest was carried out by Interpol at the request of the International Criminal Court (ICC) due to ongoing investigations concerning the extensive killings linked to his anti-narcotics operations.
The ICC accuses Mr. Duterte of committing crimes against humanity between 2011 and 2019, a period including his time as mayor of Davao and during his presidency when he withdrew the Philippines from the Rome Statute. While official reports state that approximately 6,000 individuals perished during his administration’s anti-drug campaign, human rights organizations suggest the actual number may exceed 20,000.
Duterte’s administration sought to halt the ICC’s investigation in late 2021, claiming that local authorities were examining similar charges, thereby asserting that the ICC lacked jurisdiction. Following a ruling permitting the investigation to continue, the current Philippine government under Ferdinand Marcos expressed readiness to facilitate cooperation regarding the former president’s case.
While campaigning in Hong Kong, Mr. Duterte defended his aggressive anti-drug measures, stating, “Why did I do it? For myself? For my family? For you and your children, and for our nation.” He expressed acceptance of his potential arrest, affirming, “What is my sin? I did everything in my time for peace and a peaceful life for the Filipino people.” Previously, he dismissed concerns regarding the ICC, urging it to expedite its investigation and stating, “If I’m found guilty, I can go to prison and rot there for all time.”
The ICC, headquartered in The Hague, Netherlands, intervenes in instances where national jurisdictions are either unable or unwilling to prosecute individuals accused of severe international offenses such as genocide and crimes against humanity.
In summary, the arrest of Rodrigo Duterte highlights the ongoing scrutiny of his past governance and the severe repercussions stemming from his “war on drugs.” The International Criminal Court’s involvement signifies an effort to hold leaders accountable for crimes against humanity. Mr. Duterte’s responses illustrate his defiance towards the ICC, underscoring the complexities of justice in cases of grave human rights violations.
Original Source: www.telegraph.co.uk
