How Philippines’ Duterte responds to potential ICC arrest could shape midterms
Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has stated his readiness to face arrest amid speculation that the International Criminal Court (ICC) is preparing to issue a warrant against him. The warrant would be related to alleged crimes against humanity committed during his controversial war on drugs, which resulted in thousands of deaths. Duterte made these comments at a rally in Hong Kong, where he was campaigning for his senatorial candidates ahead of the Philippine midterm elections in May.
Duterte's anti-narcotics crackdown, a key promise during his 2016 campaign, has been widely criticized by human rights groups, who estimate the death toll to be far higher than the official figure of 5,600. His appearance in Hong Kong, aimed at rallying support from Filipino workers, comes as analysts suggest that a potential ICC arrest warrant could weaken his family's political influence. Duterte defended his actions at the rally, stating that his motives were for the benefit of the nation and its children, and that he would accept his fate if arrested.
via SCMP Full Text Feed
Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has stated his readiness to face arrest amid speculation that the International Criminal Court (ICC) is preparing to issue a warrant against him. The warrant would be related to alleged crimes against humanity committed during his controversial war on drugs, which resulted in thousands of deaths. Duterte made these comments at a rally in Hong Kong, where he was campaigning for his senatorial candidates ahead of the Philippine midterm elections in May.
Duterte's anti-narcotics crackdown, a key promise during his 2016 campaign, has been widely criticized by human rights groups, who estimate the death toll to be far higher than the official figure of 5,600. His appearance in Hong Kong, aimed at rallying support from Filipino workers, comes as analysts suggest that a potential ICC arrest warrant could weaken his family's political influence. Duterte defended his actions at the rally, stating that his motives were for the benefit of the nation and its children, and that he would accept his fate if arrested.
via SCMP Full Text Feed
