THE International Criminal Court (ICC) is pushing back against former President Rodrigo Duterte’s attempt to avoid appearing at his confirmation hearing, with Deputy Prosecutor Mame Mandiaye Niang arguing that Duterte has provided no legitimate reason to skip the proceedings. The prosecutor’s office is emphasizing the importance of Duterte facing the court in person for the sake of the victims of his alleged crimes against humanity.
Niang stated that Duterte’s presence at the confirmation hearing is a “significant milestone” for the victims, who deserve to see him held accountable. The charges against Duterte stem from allegations that he and others carried out a plan to violently neutralize suspected criminals.
The ICC is questioning the timing of Duterte’s request, noting that his legal team previously complained about his lack of visibility in court. Niang dismissed Duterte’s claim of being “old, tired, and frail” as “irrelevant,” citing the findings of independent medical experts who deemed him physically and mentally fit to participate in the proceedings.
Furthermore, the prosecutor criticized Duterte’s refusal to acknowledge the ICC’s jurisdiction as an invalid excuse for avoiding the hearing. Niang also pointed out that Duterte’s unwillingness to even participate via video link demonstrates a lack of respect for the court.
The ICC has accused Duterte’s defense team of misrepresenting his condition, highlighting the panel of experts’ assessment that he is “an unreliable historian” when it comes to evaluating his own health and mental state.
The confirmation hearing is scheduled to begin on February 23, and the ICC seems determined to ensure Duterte is present to answer the charges against him.
