Fearing retaliation, drug war victims urge ICC to keep Rodrigo Duterte detained - GMA Network

Lawyers representing victims in the International Criminal Court (ICC) case against former President Rodrigo Duterte have asked Trial Chamber III to keep him in detention, saying the circumstances previously cited by the court remain unchanged.

In a public redacted filing dated September 15, Atty. Gilbert Andres, Atty. Joel Butuyan, and Paolina Massidda of the Common Legal Representatives of Victims (CLRV) argued that Duterte’s continued detention “remains necessary and warranted” to ensure his appearance at trial and prevent possible intimidation or interference with victims and witnesses.

“Victims expect to finally see Mr. Duterte appear in person in the courtroom,” the lawyers said.

The victims’ lawyers also said the latest medical assessment of Duterte does not alter earlier findings that he remains a flight risk.

“The independent medical expertise does not affect the prior judicial determination that Mr. Duterte continues to pose a significant flight risk,” they said.

According to the CLRV, Duterte remains capable of absconding, interfering with the investigation and proceedings, and relying on a network of supporters and resources to achieve them.

The CLRV said drug war victims and their families continue to fear “threats, retaliation, and stigmatization in the communities due to Mr. Duterte’s continuing influence.”

The filing comes as Trial Chamber III reviews Duterte’s continued detention, while a ruling on his fitness to stand trial remains pending.

The prosecution has likewise asked the Chamber to maintain his detention, while the defense has questioned the medical experts’ findings and sought further examinations. —VBL, GMA News