Former Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte has been transferred to The Hague following an ICC arrest warrant concerning his anti-drug campaign, which allegedly resulted in 30,000 deaths. His lawyers demand his return to Manila, labeling the situation as ‘kidnapping’. Victims express hope for justice as human rights advocates celebrate the arrest as a significant milestone.
Lawyers representing former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte have filed a petition in the Supreme Court, insisting on his return to Manila following his arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC). This comes as victims of Duterte’s controversial anti-drug campaign, which has reportedly led to as many as 30,000 deaths, expressed their relief and satisfaction with the progress of justice for his alleged crimes against humanity.
Duterte was transported to The Hague, where he is set to face charges related to his administration’s brutal “war on drugs.” His youngest daughter, Veronica, and his eldest daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, are involved in preparations for his legal defense. Legal representatives have characterized his transfer as “kidnapping” and are demanding his immediate repatriation.
Human Rights Watch’s Carlos Conde remarked on the significance of this event, indicating that the victims of Duterte’s policies are filled with hope for justice. He emphasized that many victims have lost faith in the Philippine justice system, which has failed to address their grievances effectively. They are now placing their aspirations for justice on the ICC’s intervention.
An ICC spokesperson confirmed Duterte’s arrest, with an initial hearing set to take place while he is in custody. Although the timeline for any trial remains uncertain, advocacy groups are urgingPrompt action.
The National Union of Peoples’ Lawyers expressed that, while the pain from the loss of victims is profound, today’s developments brought about feelings of joy and hope, marking a momentous shift in their pursuit of justice. They likened Duterte’s arrest to a triumph for the marginalized, likening it to the Biblical story of David versus Goliath.
Brother Jun Santiago, who established Silingan Coffee shop as a place for the families of victims to share their narratives, shared sentiments of relief and joy over the recent unfolding events. The café even provided discounts to motivate patrons to learn about the injustices that transpired during Duterte’s regime.
The news of Duterte’s arrest has been met with jubilation by human rights advocates, with the Philippine rights alliance Karapatan labeling the event as significantly overdue. While supporters of Duterte argue that the ICC lacks jurisdiction due to the Philippines’ 2019 withdrawal from the Rome Statute, the ICC has maintained that it holds jurisdiction over events that occurred prior to the withdrawal.
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. stated that the ICC’s request for the arrest was properly executed, reaffirming that the legal processes followed were observed, and asserting that the Philippines did not assist the ICC in the matter, as the arrest was conducted in accordance with Interpol protocols.
In summary, the recent arrest of former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has generated significant responses both domestically and internationally. Victims and human rights advocates express optimism for justice, stemming from the ICC’s involvement. The legal implications of this case and Duterte’s return to the Philippines remain contentious as both supporters and critics interpret its ramifications. The unfolding events symbolize a crucial moment in addressing human rights violations from Duterte’s tenure.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
