Duterte Arrested After ICC Issues Warrant for Crimes Against Humanity
Former President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested on Tuesday after the Philippine government received an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court (ICC) for alleged crimes against humanity. This comes after Duterte’s administration oversaw a controversial anti-drug campaign that led to thousands of deaths. Police data reported over 6,000 killings, but independent monitors suggest the actual number could be much higher.
Arrest at Manila Airport
Duterte, 79, was detained upon his arrival at Manila’s main airport after returning from Hong Kong. Interpol’s Manila office confirmed receiving the official ICC arrest warrant on Tuesday morning. According to a statement from the Presidential Communications Office, the Prosecutor General filed an arrest notification for Duterte immediately after his return.
Duterte questioned the legal basis for the arrest, asking, “What is the law and what crime did I commit?” He shared this statement in a video posted online by his daughter, Veronica “Kitty” Duterte.
Duterte’s Controversial Presidency and War on Drugs
Rodrigo Duterte, often called “Asia’s Trump” due to his fiery leadership style and bold rhetoric, became president of the Philippines in 2016. He promised to wage war on drugs and drug dealers, which led to widespread violence. Thousands, mostly young men from poor neighborhoods, were killed by police and vigilantes as part of the anti-drug operations.
The brutal crackdown triggered investigations both within the Philippines and by the ICC. A House of Representatives inquiry and a Senate investigation followed. Despite withdrawing the Philippines from the ICC in 2018, the court still maintains jurisdiction over crimes committed during the country’s membership, from 2016 to 2019.
ICC Arrest Warrant and Government Response
The government of current President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., elected in 2022, has indicated that Duterte may be handed over to the ICC. Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro stated that law enforcement would comply if the arrest warrant needed to be enforced.
Duterte, in a recent event in Hong Kong, mocked the ICC and questioned the validity of the arrest warrant. “What did I do wrong? I did everything I could for the peace of Filipinos,” he said.
Former Spokesperson Denies Legality of Arrest
Harry Roque, Duterte’s former spokesperson, argued that the arrest warrant had no legal basis, claiming it was issued after the Philippines had withdrawn from the ICC. He called the detention “unlawful,” stating they had not seen the arrest warrant from either the police or Interpol.
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Rights Groups Welcome Duterte’s Arrest
Human rights groups, however, have praised Duterte’s detention as a significant step toward accountability. Bryony Lau, Deputy Asia Director at Human Rights Watch, stated that the arrest could bring victims closer to justice and send a strong message that no one is above the law.
Duterte’s Rise to Power and His Tough Stance on Crime
Before becoming president, Duterte gained national attention as mayor of Davao City, where he gained a reputation for his tough stance on crime. He was linked to extrajudicial killings carried out by vigilante groups, and he openly advocated for harsh measures against criminals.
During his presidential campaign, Duterte promised to continue his hardline approach to crime, even openly stating that he would kill drug pushers and criminals. Once in office, his rhetoric remained confrontational, even insulting US President Barack Obama before later apologizing.
Plans for a Return to Local Politics
Despite health concerns and the looming threat of the ICC arrest warrant, Duterte recently registered to run for mayor of Davao City again. This move is seen as an attempt to strengthen his political influence and dynasty, especially as tensions rise between his daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, and President Marcos Jr.
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