Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested and is being sent to The Hague to face crimes against humanity charges related to his controversial anti-drug policies. President Ferdinand Marcos stated the arrest followed an ICC warrant via Interpol, marking Duterte as the first ex-leader from Asia to be arrested by the global court. Families of victims expressed relief and hope for justice, as investigations into mass killings resume, despite the Duterte administration’s prior attempts to halt them.
Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested in Manila and is being flown to The Hague to face charges of crimes against humanity. This move follows an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) due to Duterte’s controversial anti-drug policies that led to mass killings during his presidency. President Ferdinand Marcos confirmed the arrest was in compliance with Interpol’s orders and stated it was not politically motivated.
Duterte, now 79 and using a cane, was apprehended at the international airport upon returning from Hong Kong. He expressed disbelief and demanded to see the legal basis for his arrest, creating a scene as supporters and family members bid him farewell. His daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, criticized the administration for allowing a foreign court jurisdiction over her father.
Marcos termed Duterte’s arrest “proper and correct,” emphasizing the Philippines’ Interpol membership. As Duterte becomes the first former Asian leader to face such charges, the arrest warranted widespread reactions, especially from families of victims of his drug campaign.
Human rights activists have previously accused Duterte of overseeing a crackdown that resulted in thousands of deaths, with estimates ranging from 6,000 to 30,000 casualties. The ICC’s warrant indicated a systematic and widespread attack against victims occurred during his time in office from 2011 to 2019.
Duterte’s detention is aimed at ensuring his presence before the court, accounting for potential tampering with investigations and witness safety. He is charged with murder as a crime against humanity under the allegations stemming from his presidency and prior mayoral term. Families of victims expressed hope for justice, feeling relieved at the arrest.
The ICC has resumed its investigations into the alleged drug killings after Duterte’s administration claimed self-investigation would suffice. However, the ICC asserted its jurisdiction when national law enforcement fails to execute justice adequately. Despite the ongoing situation, President Marcos has chosen not to reinstate Philippines’ membership in the ICC.
The arrest serves as a pivotal moment in Philippine politics, highlighting a significant shift towards accountability regarding human rights violations under Duterte’s regime, with advocates seeking greater justice against the former president’s policies.
The arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte marks a significant development in the pursuit of justice for victims of his anti-drug campaign. The International Criminal Court’s involvement emphasizes the seriousness of the charges against him, reflecting wider implications for human rights accountability in the Philippines. The reaction from both supporters and victims’ families highlights the polarized views surrounding his legacy. As the situation unfolds, it remains pivotal for Philippine governance and the rule of law.
Original Source: baytobaynews.com
