IN a significant development, the International Criminal Court (ICC) Pre-Trial Chamber I has granted former President Rodrigo Duterte’s request to not attend his confirmation of charges hearing next week. The hearing is related to the charges against him regarding his administration’s war on drugs. The Chamber stated in a document dated February 20 that the hearing will proceed in Duterte’s absence, respecting his waiver to attend.
The ICC’s decision comes after Duterte formally waived his right to be present at the hearings, primarily citing his refusal to recognize the court’s jurisdiction over him. Despite the ICC prosecutor’s earlier objections, the Chamber has ultimately allowed the proceedings to move forward without Duterte’s physical presence. The Chamber has also directed Duterte’s legal team, the ICC prosecutors, and the legal representatives of the victims to specify which filings can be made public and which require redaction.
The confirmation of charges hearing is scheduled to take place over four days, from February 23 to February 27. During these hearings, the ICC will examine the evidence and arguments presented by the prosecution to determine whether there is sufficient basis to move forward with a trial against Duterte.
ICC spokesperson Oriane Maillet clarified that Duterte’s absence is based on his waiver and not due to health concerns. This confirmation addresses any speculation that Duterte’s health might be a factor in his decision to skip the hearing, emphasizing that it is a deliberate choice based on his stance regarding the ICC’s authority.
