MANILA, Philippines — Rodrigo Duterte has formally waived his right to attend the International Criminal Court (ICC) hearings on the confirmation of charges against him next week in connection with his administration’s campaign against illegal drugs.
In a signed notification dated February 17, the 80-year-old former president said he would not attend the hearings scheduled from February 23 to 27, citing several reasons — primarily his refusal to recognize the ICC’s jurisdiction over him.
The notification was submitted to ICC Pre-Trial Chamber I on February 18. A copy was furnished to media by his legal counsel, Nicholas Kaufman.
In his statement, Duterte asserted that he does not acknowledge the authority of the ICC over his person, describing his transfer to The Hague as a violation of Philippine sovereignty and the Constitution. He claimed he was forcibly transported to the Netherlands and alleged that the move was facilitated by the current administration.
Duterte also strongly denied allegations that he oversaw a policy of extrajudicial killings during his anti-drug campaign, calling the accusations “outrageous lies” propagated by political opponents. He argued that the claims were based on testimonies from individuals whose credibility, he said, had already been discredited.
Citing his age and frail health, Duterte said he does not wish to participate in proceedings that he may not be able to fully comprehend or remember. He acknowledged the possibility of dying in detention but expressed acceptance of that outcome.
“I am old, tired, and frail,” he said, adding that he hopes the court will respect his wish for peace while in custody. Despite the charges, Duterte maintained that he remains proud of his legacy and service to the Filipino people.
“Let no one doubt my love for and loyalty to the Filipino nation. Kaninyo, ako, magpabiling suluguon (To you, I will remain a servant),” he said.
The former president noted that he understands the legal consequences of waiving his right to attend the confirmation of charges hearing, saying the matter had been thoroughly explained to him by his legal team. He expressed confidence that Kaufman and his lawyers would challenge the sufficiency of the prosecution’s evidence on his behalf.
Earlier, Kaufman confirmed that Duterte would also not participate in the proceedings via video conference.
The ICC recently released the Document Containing the Charges (DCC) filed by prosecutors, outlining the allegations against Duterte and identifying several individuals described as co-perpetrators in the anti-drug campaign. Among those named were Senators Ronald dela Rosa and Christopher Lawrence Go, both former close aides and allies of Duterte.
The confirmation of charges hearing will determine whether the case will proceed to trial before the international tribunal. #END
News Source: GMA News
Photo credit: abogado.com.ph