Philippines Ex-President ICC Case: Duterte Arrested – ‘They Took Dad from Us,’ Daughter Says
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March 11 (Reuters) – Authorities arrested former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte early Tuesday at a Manila airport after he returned from Hong Kong. Hours later, they put him on a plane to an undisclosed location, reportedly bound for The Hague. His arrest marks a crucial moment in the Philippines ex-president ICC case, as the court investigates alleged human rights violations during his controversial war on drugs.
Veronica Duterte, his youngest daughter, expressed her frustration on Instagram. She posted an image of a small bus on an airfield, writing, “They took dad from us, put him on a plane, and wouldn’t say where to. People, wake up.” Her post highlighted the secrecy surrounding his transfer.
Local media outlet ABS-CBN News shared a video on social media platform X, showing Duterte boarding a jet at a Manila airfield. The Philippine Star later reported that a senior police official confirmed the flight was headed to The Hague, Netherlands, where the International Criminal Court (ICC) is based.
Philippines Ex-President ICC Case: A Turning Point in Duterte’s Fate
Duterte’s arrest is a major step in the ICC’s investigation into human rights violations and alleged crimes against humanity linked to his war on drugs. His presidency (2016-2022) was marked by an aggressive anti-drug campaign that led to thousands of deaths. Many human rights groups condemned these as extrajudicial killings.
The former leader, a longtime mayor and self-proclaimed crime-buster, vowed to eliminate illegal drugs. He made fiery speeches, promising to kill drug pushers and users. While he insisted police only acted in self-defense, international watchdogs, including the ICC, have linked his policies to systematic killings. His arrest now pushes forward the Philippines ex-president ICC case, testing international justice.
Rodrigo Duterte Arrest: The ICC’s Pursuit and His Defiance
Duterte repeatedly dismissed the ICC’s jurisdiction, especially after he withdrew the Philippines from the ICC’s founding treaty in 2019. However, the court claims it retains authority over crimes committed while the country was still a member.
For years, Duterte mocked the ICC, even daring them to arrest him. Now, he faces the fate he once scoffed at. If transferred to The Hague, he could become Asia’s first former head of state to stand trial at the ICC. His case sets a precedent for international justice and underscores the ICC’s role in holding leaders accountable.
Philippines Ex-President ICC Case: Family and Allies Cry Foul
Duterte’s allies and family members called the arrest unlawful, arguing that the ICC has no legal power over the Philippines. They insist that only the country’s judicial system should handle accusations against him.
His arrest and possible trial will likely spark heated political debates. He still enjoys strong support. Many credit him with bringing order, while critics argue that his rule was marked by human rights abuses, police brutality, and a disregard for due process.
Rodrigo Duterte Arrest: What’s Next for the Philippines?
With Duterte reportedly en route to The Hague, questions arise about how the case will unfold. If confirmed, his trial could set a precedent for global justice, showing the ICC’s reach even over powerful former leaders.
As the world watches, the Philippines faces a reckoning with its past policies and accountability. Will Duterte’s arrest signal a new era of justice, or will it deepen political divisions?
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