Rodrigo Duterte was arrested in Manila and extradited to The Hague, where he faces ICC charges over his "war on drugs." Duterte's past generates mixed reactions amid ongoing political feuds and public debate regarding his legacy.
Duterte Faces ICC Charges as Controversial Drug War Comes Under Scrutiny
Duterte Faces ICC Charges as Controversial Drug War Comes Under Scrutiny
Former Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte arrives in The Hague to confront crimes against humanity allegations stemming from his aggressive anti-drug campaign.
A plane carrying former Philippines president Rodrigo Duterte touched down in the Netherlands, marking a significant moment in his controversial political career as he prepares to face charges of crimes against humanity at the International Criminal Court (ICC). His arrest at Manila airport came unexpectedly on Tuesday, shortly before he was flown to The Hague via Dubai on a chartered jet. At 79 years old, Duterte stands to be the first former Asian head of state to be tried at the ICC.
Duterte, who led the Philippines from 2016 to 2022, was at the helm during a violent "war on drugs" that resulted in thousands of deaths, often without due process. His extradition was aided by current President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who publicly stated that complying with legal obligations was imperative for the country’s international reputation. This follows a significant political fallout between Duterte's and Marcos' families, once allies during the 2022 elections.
Despite his earlier claims that the ICC lacked jurisdiction due to the Philippines withdrawing from the court in 2019, the ICC asserts its authority over crimes committed before this withdrawal. The ongoing investigation pertains to actions taken between 2011 and 2019, including allegations of a "death squad" in Davao, where Duterte served as mayor prior to his presidency.
Human Rights Watch hailed Duterte’s arrest as a vital step towards accountability in the Philippines. Public response on social media is polarized, reflecting the mixed legacy of his administration; some celebrate the ICC's actions, while others express regret and support for Duterte, emphasizing his contributions towards national safety and development.
As Duterte navigates these seismic legal challenges, the political implications and public sentiment continue to evolve, showcasing the complexities of his tenure and the implications of his policies on Filipino society.
