Victims' Counsel Urges ICC to Deny Duterte's Request for Release

The principal counsel of the Office of the Public Counsel for Victims in the International Criminal Court has requested the tribunal to reject former President Rodrigo Duterte's plea for interim release. Principal Counsel Paolina Massida's submission follows a similar request by the Office of the Prosecutor to deny Duterte's defense counsel Nicholas Kaufman's petition.

Massida emphasized that given Duterte's recent arrest, his interim release would be difficult for the victims who have expressed a strong desire for him to remain in detention at the Court until the pre-trial proceedings. This, according to the victims' counsel, is crucial to ensuring that he faces trial and to safeguard them from potential threats from the Suspect and his supporters.

Duterte's request, filed by Kaufman, mentioned that a country has agreed to host the former leader, who faces charges of crimes against humanity related to the killings during his anti-drug campaign as mayor of Davao City and later as president of the Philippines. The prosecution, while not opposing Duterte's interim release to the undisclosed country, stressed the necessity of his continued detention to secure his presence at trial, citing his refusal to acknowledge the legal proceedings against him.

In an 18-page response, the victims' counsel argued against Duterte's interim release, citing his significant influence, refusal to cooperate with the ICC, and the powerful positions held by his family members in the government. Massida highlighted the risk of Duterte not returning for trial if released, given his popularity and the respect he commands in the Philippines.

Meanwhile, the Vice President expressed concerns about the potential denial of her father's interim release.

According to the source: GMA Network.