LONDON, March 15 (Bernama-Anadolu) -- Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte failed to attend a hearing in person at the International Criminal Court (ICC) on Friday for crimes against humanity related to his deadly anti-narcotics crackdown, Anadolu Ajansi (AA) reported.
The 79-year-old, the first former Asian head of state to face charges at the ICC, followed the brief hearing via video link from his jail, where he was informed of the crimes he is accused of and his rights as a defendant.
Duterte appeared frail, dressed in a blue suit and tie, and spoke briefly to confirm his name and date of birth.
His lawyer, Salvador Medialdea, told the court that his client had been “abducted from his country” and that “he was summarily transported to The Hague. To lawyers it’s extrajudicial rendition. For less legal minds it’s pure and simple kidnapping.”
Medialdea highlighted Duterte’s “debilitating medical issues,” stating that other than identifying himself, Duterte was “not able to contribute to this hearing.”
Duterte appeared sleepy, frequently closing his eyes for long periods throughout the proceedings.
Judge Motoc told Duterte that “the court doctor was of the opinion that you were fully mentally aware and fit.”
Motoc set Sept 23 for the next stage of the process, a hearing to confirm the charges.
Duterte faces charges of “murder as a crime against humanity” due to his deadly war on drugs.
The charges stem from his years-long campaign against drug dealers and users, which human rights groups said resulted in tens of thousands of deaths.
Duterte’s arrest by the ICC comes after he publicly acknowledged responsibility for the violence in a Facebook video: “I have been telling the police, the military, that it was my job and I am responsible.”
Sara Duterte has travelled to The Netherlands to support her father for what she called his “oppression and persecution.”
Meanwhile, victims of the “war on drugs” remain hopeful that Duterte will face justice for the alleged crimes.
Gilbert Andres, a lawyer representing the victims, expressed gratitude: “My clients are very thankful to God because their prayers have been answered. The arrest of Rodrigo Duterte is a great signal for international criminal justice. It means that no one is above the law.”
The high-profile case arrives at a critical juncture for the ICC, which is under significant pressure, including sanctions from the United States (US).
-- BERNAMA-ANADOLU
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