Caption: Former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte faces crimes against humanity charges at the ICC for killings tied to his anti-drug campaign. Image: Aaron Favila/AP.
(The Post News) – Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has been charged with crimes against humanity by the International Criminal Court connected to several killings during his supposed drug war.
The charges cover two main time frames: first, his time as mayor of Davao City, and then his presidency from 2016 to 2022. According to prosecutors, the former president played a vital role in organizing violent operations, which led to several deaths. These crimes against humanity accusations underscore the grave nature of the case.
To begin with, the first charge focuses on 19 killings in Davao City between 2013 and 2016. These incidents reportedly occurred while Duterte held office as mayor and are believed to be part of a broader effort to eliminate suspected criminals.
Duterte’s Charges During His Presidency
Furthermore, the second and third charges relate to his presidency. One involves the deaths of 14 individuals identified as “high-value targets.” Meanwhile, the other concerns the murder and attempted murder of 45 people during village raids aimed at clearing out alleged drug activity. The ensuing court proceedings are going to determine those responsible for the alleged crimes against humanity.
According to the ICC, Duterte is accused of acting as an indirect co-perpetrator, sharing responsibility for the violence carried out by others, including law enforcement. The court claims these actions were part of a coordinated plan to eliminate individuals suspected of drug involvement, often without legal process.
This is a rare case, with Duterte becoming the first former Asian head of state to be charged by the ICC for crimes against humanity, placing him at the center of a landmark international legal battle over state-led violence.
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