The Hague, Netherlands — The camp representing victims of the extrajudicial killings that allegedly took place under the war on drugs campaign stressed that former President Rodrigo Duterte should remain detained under the custody of the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague, Netherlands.
In an observation submitted by the Common Legal Representatives of Victims on September 15, the victims’ camp emphasized that Duterte’s detention remains valid, especially now that his case has reached a crucial stage.
According to the camp, keeping Duterte in detention is necessary to prevent any form of threat, pressure, or intimidation against victims and witnesses, as well as any possible interference in the proceedings.
It added that continued detention would also ensure Duterte’s attendance at trial, particularly as the victims hope that the former President will appear before and face the court.
More than a year after Duterte was arrested on crimes against humanity charges related to the alleged EJKs, the families of the victims reportedly continue to experience fear, concerns over retaliation, and stigma from supporters of the former President.
As part of the review of Duterte’s detention, the victims’ camp is asking Trial Chamber III to order the former President’s continued detention, particularly in connection with the trial scheduled to begin on November 30.
FPRRD EXPERIENCING MEMORY IMPAIRMENT — DEFENSE COUNSEL
Meanwhile, Duterte’s Defense team has submitted its observations regarding the report of the experts who conducted a medical examination and assessment of the former President.
In their September 14 filing, Lead Defense Counsel Atty. Peter Haynes said Duterte is experiencing significant memory impairment and is having difficulty recalling information.
According to his camp, the former President is now having difficulty understanding the case he is facing, remembering the alleged incidents, going through thousands of pieces of evidence, and providing instructions to his lawyers.
The Defense also argued that the panel’s assessment of Duterte’s condition was incomplete and insufficient as it did not provide a clear assessment on the cognitive difficulties the former President is experiencing.
Because of this, the Defense is asking Trial Chamber III to seek greater medical certainty from experts regarding the extent of Duterte’s cognitive impairments.
The Defense is also seeking to have Duterte undergo ancillary examinations by a neurologist and is asking that counsel be allowed to question the experts and challenge their findings.—Mia Layaguin, Eurotv News