Drug war victims hail ICC’s ruling vs. Digong’s temporary release

The Union of Peoples’ Lawyers in Mindanao (UPLM) called the International Criminal Court (ICC) Appeals Chamber’s unanimous decision to reject former President Rodrigo Duterte’s temporary release a significant victory and necessary safeguard for the victims and witnesses.

The UPLM described the decision as a “significant and crucial preliminary victory” for survivors of the “war on drugs.” The group said the ruling upholds the Pre-Trial Chamber I’s earlier decision, ensuring Duterte remains in detention while awaiting the confirmation of charges hearing and eventual trial.

According to UPLM, the Appeals Chamber’s judgment prioritizes the integrity of the judicial process over political maneuvering – “This ruling confirms the ICC’s assessment that Duterte’s continued detention is absolutely necessary to mitigate the manifest and persistent risks he poses to the security of victims and potential witnesses, as well as the risk of obstructing the proceedings.”

The UPLM noted that the defense’s attempt to secure temporary freedom on health and humanitarian grounds was denied, with the court underscoring the gravity of the charges and the need for cooperation with international justice mechanisms.

“For the thousands of families who have faced years of grief, impunity and fear, this decision provides a much-needed degree of assurance,” according to a UPLM statement. “It reinforces the principle that no individual, regardless of their past office or power, is above the scrutiny of international law.”

The lawyers’ group urged the ICC to proceed immediately to the confirmation of charges hearing and called for the arrest of Duterte’s alleged co-perpetrators.

“This is not the end of the quest, but it is a powerful stride forward,” the UPLM stated. “The denial of interim release keeps the accountability door wide open.”