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ICC to Investigate 'War on Drugs' |
Brogosil Philippines - Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has once again stirred controversy with his public challenge to the International Criminal Court (ICC), urging the tribunal to begin its investigation into his infamous "war on drugs" immediately. At a recent hearing before the House of Representatives on November 13, 2024, Duterte expressed frustration with the prolonged investigation and dared the ICC to come to the Philippines and start the probe without delay.
Duterte's remarks were made in response to a question from Gabriela party-list Representative Arlene Brosas, who asked whether he would cooperate with the ICC's investigation into the alleged human rights violations tied to his administration’s anti-drug campaign. Duterte, known for his brash and unapologetic style, responded by stating that the issue had been “left hanging for so many years” and that he might die before the investigation could even begin.
In his characteristic direct manner, Duterte further stated, "I am asking the ICC to hurry up... and if possible, they can come here and start the investigation tomorrow." He emphasized that he would accept whatever legal consequences followed, adding that if he were found guilty, he would be willing to go to prison and "rot there for all time."
This challenge to the ICC is just the latest in Duterte's ongoing defiance against the tribunal. Since the court opened its investigation into allegations of extrajudicial killings and other abuses during Duterte's war on drugs, he has repeatedly rejected its jurisdiction and criticized its findings. His administration's violent crackdown, which began in 2016, has led to thousands of deaths, with critics accusing Duterte of encouraging state-sponsored killings of drug suspects.
Duterte has made it clear that he does not back down from his controversial stance on dealing with criminals. He has previously admitted to ordering police officers to "kill" suspected drug dealers who resist arrest and has defended his harsh rhetoric and actions as necessary for national security. His tough language and actions have led to widespread condemnation from human rights organizations, but Duterte remains unrepentant, stating that his focus was always on protecting law enforcement officers and ensuring the safety of Filipino citizens.
As Duterte's challenge to the ICC continues to unfold, the debate surrounding his legacy and the legal ramifications of his war on drugs remains a hot topic in both local and international discussions. Whether the ICC will heed his call or continue its investigation remains to be seen, but one thing is clear—Duterte's approach to justice and his unyielding attitude toward external scrutiny will continue to captivate the world.
For those following the evolving story of Duterte’s legal battles and the ongoing investigation into his policies, this latest development serves as another chapter in an already contentious saga.