ICC Opens Duterte Hearings

The International Criminal Court has opened pre-trial hearings against former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte over alleged crimes against humanity linked to his anti-drug campaign.

The proceedings began at the court’s headquarters in The Hague to determine whether Mr. Duterte will face a full trial for actions taken during his presidency from 2016 to 2022.

Prosecutors allege that thousands of people were killed during a nationwide crackdown on illegal drugs, which they argue amounted to crimes against humanity. The judges are reviewing evidence presented by both the prosecution and the defense to decide whether the case should proceed to trial.

“I did what I believed was necessary to protect my country and its people,” Mr. Duterte said in a statement issued through his legal team.

ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan said the hearings mark an important legal step. “The victims of alleged crimes deserve their day in court,” he said.

The Philippines withdrew from the court in 2019, but prosecutors maintain that the ICC retains jurisdiction over alleged crimes committed while the country was still a member.

A decision on whether the case moves to full trial is expected in the coming months.