PROSECUTORS at the International Criminal Court (ICC) have formally opposed former President Rodrigo Duterte’s request for interim release, according to a 15-page filing dated June 23.
Deputy Prosecutor Mame Mandiaye Niang urged the ICC chamber in The Hague to reject Duterte’s petition to be released to a country willing to accept him, arguing that his continued detention is essential.
“The Prosecution’s position is that Mr. Duterte’s continued detention is necessary to ensure his appearance at trial, to prevent any obstruction of the investigation or court proceedings, and to stop him from committing further crimes under the Court’s jurisdiction,” the document stated.
Prosecutors cited statements attributed to Duterte suggesting he planned to return to politics. They noted reports that he expressed intent to run again for Davao City mayor and even vowed to “double” drug-related killings upon his return. The prosecution said Duterte has since been elected mayor, and his family remains vocal about bringing him back to the Philippines.
They also argued that Duterte and his allies have previously interfered in investigations and cited instances where the former president publicly threatened ICC officials with violence.
Duterte is currently in ICC custody over alleged crimes committed during his administration’s anti-drug campaign.
