Rodrigo Duterte has stated he would accept arrest by the ICC, as the court may issue a warrant related to his drug war policies. His administration supports legal processes, and he has defended his actions at a rally in Hong Kong. Trump’s prior withdrawal from the ICC raises complex inquiries regarding cooperation with ongoing investigations.
Former President of the Philippines, Rodrigo Duterte, expressed his readiness to face arrest should the International Criminal Court (ICC) issue a warrant for his actions during his controversial anti-drug campaign. This announcement came amid reports suggesting that the ICC is likely to proceed with legal action regarding the deaths of thousands attributed to his administration’s policies. Duterte’s “war on drugs” was a pivotal aspect of his rise to power in 2016, marking him as a formidable, crime-fighting leader.
The current administration, under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., stated that no official notification from Interpol had been received yet. Nonetheless, Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro affirmed that Philippine law enforcement is prepared to act if a warrant is issued. The uncertain duration of Duterte’s stay in Hong Kong—an area not affiliated with the ICC—has raised questions about his legal predicament while he seeks to rally support for his family’s political endeavors at a senatorial campaign event.
During a public rally, Duterte defended the rationale behind his drug war, stating, “Assuming it’s (warrant) true, why did I do it? For myself? For my family? For you and your children, and for our nation.” He emphasized that he would welcome any consequences of his governance, proclaiming, “If this is truly my fate in life, it’s okay, I will accept it. They can arrest me, imprison me. What is my sin? I did everything in my time for peace and a peaceful life for the Filipino people.”
Security in the vicinity of Duterte’s hotel in Hong Kong was notably heightened, with specialized police units present. Meanwhile, the Philippine presidential office rejected the notion that Duterte was attempting to evade justice through his presence in Hong Kong and urged his followers to trust the judicial processes. Previously, Duterte had withdrawn the Philippines from the ICC’s jurisdiction in 2019, amidst accusations of extrajudicial killings during his drug campaign, but the Philippines has recently indicated potential cooperation with renewed investigations.
In summary, former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has prepared to accept potential arrest by the ICC concerning his administration’s controversial anti-drug policies. While the current administration is ready to comply with legal obligations, Duterte has publicly defended his actions, underscoring his commitment to the Filipino people. The situation remains fluid as Duterte engages in political activities abroad while facing ongoing legal scrutiny.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
