The families of victims from former President Rodrigo Duterte’s controversial drug war believe that while his request for interim release from the International Criminal Court (ICC) on humanitarian grounds is understandable, the ICC is fully capable of addressing his medical needs.
Atty. Kristina Conti, legal representative and assistant to the ICC counsel, said Friday that while the victims recognize Duterte’s age and health concerns, they trust the ICC’s ability to provide adequate medical care. “They understand it’s humane… but the ICC can arrange proper assistance,” Conti told Super Radyo dzBB.
Duterte, who is under ICC custody in The Hague, had asked to be temporarily released to an undisclosed country for health reasons. His legal team argued that the country in question offers a stable environment and claimed the ICC Prosecutor and the host country do not oppose the move. However, Conti called these statements “self-serving” unless officially confirmed.
She also reiterated that Duterte has been declared “fit for trial,” based on prior medical evaluations, and emphasized that being elderly does not exempt one from facing justice.
Conti further explained that the victims will be given a chance to submit their observations regarding Duterte’s interim release. Conditions of the proposed release would reportedly limit Duterte’s movements, keeping him under state custody and requiring his attendance at all ICC proceedings.
The ICC has yet to respond to inquiries for comment.