Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested for crimes against humanity related to his war on drugs, which has faced opposition from various figures advocating for victims’ rights and accountability. Key opponents, including Father Flaviano Villanueva, Senator Leila de Lima, forensic pathologist Raquel Fortun, and former Senator Antonio Trillanes, expressed mixed feelings, recognizing the importance of continued pursuit of justice for the many affected individuals.
Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s war on drugs has drawn considerable opposition within the country. Recently, he was arrested and transferred to the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague on charges of crimes against humanity. This action has reignited discourse among his opposition, who cite the estimated tens of thousands of deaths attributed to his policies targeting drug users and dealers.
Father Flaviano Villanueva, a Manila-based priest, expressed a strong sense of faith regarding Duterte’s arrest, stating, “God never sleeps.” He has been actively supporting families of victims killed during the drug crackdown, arguing that justice, which takes various forms, is crucial in the healing process. Villanueva emphasizes collective accountability for the violence, asserting that numerous individuals bear responsibility beyond just the former president.
Former senator Leila de Lima, who spent six years in prison on allegedly fabricated drug charges, reacted with mixed emotions upon hearing of Duterte’s arrest. Understanding it as a victory, she recognized the need for local authorities to pursue justice further by prosecuting lower-level participants in the drug war. De Lima remarked on the necessity of taking additional measures to hold accountable those involved.
Forensic pathologist Raquel Fortun marked the arrest as a watershed moment that prompted tears of relief. Despite facing threats, she remains dedicated to her work in uncovering the truth behind the deaths resulting from the drug war. Fortun expressed a sense of cautious hope for the victims’ families and reinforced her commitment to continuing her investigations regardless of the ongoing dangers.
Former senator Antonio Trillanes noted that his team felt “ecstatic” about the arrest, given their eight-year effort to provide evidence to the ICC. He articulated that Duterte’s apprehension sends a crucial message to future leaders regarding accountability for abuse of power. Trillanes cautioned that the public should not harbor sympathy for Duterte, recognizing that this event is merely the first step in a protracted quest for justice.
The arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte represents a pivotal moment in the ongoing battle for justice related to his controversial war on drugs. Key opposition figures, including Father Villanueva, Senator de Lima, Dr. Fortun, and Senator Trillanes, underscore the necessity of accountability and the complex journey ahead. While the arrest symbolizes progress, they collectively recognize the need for continued efforts to pursue justice for victims and their families.
Original Source: www.france24.com
