ICC postpones Rodrigo Duterte’s confirmation of charges hearing

Former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte ARCHIVE

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has postponed the start of the hearing on the confirmation of charges against former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte, originally scheduled for September 23. The decision came after Duterte’s legal team requested an indefinite suspension, arguing that the former president is not fit to stand trial. Pre-Trial Chamber 1 of the ICC evaluated the request, emphasizing its duty under the ICC Rules of Procedure and Evidence to “ensure the suspect’s rights are protected under Article 67 of the Rome Statute.” In a statement on Monday (September 8), the ICC said: “The majority of the Chamber considered that a limited postponement of the hearing on the confirmation of charges was warranted to allow sufficient time to adjudicate the request and related matters.” The Chamber clarified that the postponement is limited, rather than indefinite, and will cover only the time necessary to determine whether Duterte is fit to participate in the pre-trial proceedings, including the confirmation of charges hearing. “As a result, the date originally set by the Chamber must be vacated and the confirmation of charges hearing is postponed until further notice pursuant to Rule 121 (7) of the Rules,” the ICC added. Judge María del Socorro Flores Liera dissented from the majority, but the Chamber will issue a new scheduling order with a specific date for the hearing in due course. This hearing is a pivotal moment in the ICC process. A confirmation of charges could lead to a full trial, potentially holding a former head of state accountable for alleged crimes against humanity. ICA/Expat Media