The Hague, Netherlands – The International Criminal Court’s (ICC) Pre-Trial Chamber I has determined that former President Rodrigo Duterte is fit to participate in pre-trial proceedings in his crimes against humanity case, setting the confirmation of charges hearing for February 23, 2026.
The chamber rejected the Duterte camp’s request for an indefinite adjournment of the case, which was based on the claim that he is not fit to stand trial. “In light of its above finding that Mr Duterte is able effectively to exercise his procedural rights and is therefore fit to take part in the pre-trial proceedings, the Chamber rejects the Adjournment Request,” it said in its January 26 decision.
It based its ruling on the findings of its panel of experts who said Duterte has the necessary capacities to understand the charges and the proceedings. It said it was not persuaded by the defense’s argument that Duterte’s short-term memory has been affected to the point that he cannot retain information for more than a short period of time.
The ICC Pre-Trial Chamber I earlier postponed the confirmation of charges hearing while it assessed the Duterte camp’s contention that he is not fit for trial. It appointed the panel of experts to check on his condition.
metrosundaily
