READ: ICC decision on rejecting Rodrigo Duterte's appeal for interim release
The International Criminal Court rejected grounds for Rodrigo Duterte's appeal for interim release.
On Nov. 28, the tribunal upheld Pre-Trial Chamber I's September decision to deny Duterte's request for interim release, unanimously rejecting grounds of appeal by his defense team. It stressed that the former president must remain in ICC custody to secure his appearance at trial and to prevent potential witness intimidation and interference in the investigation.
The ruling noted that Duterte’s legal team “failed to demonstrate” any mistakes in the Pre-Trial Chamber I's conclusion that the former president possesses the financial resources and influence that would allow him to flee or avoid prosecution.
It added that Duterte “appears to have the necessary political contacts and appears to benefit a network of supporters from the Philippines.” It also noted that his legal team did not prove that the chamber failed to take humanitarian considerations into account regarding his detention.
The result of his medical assessment will be released on Dec. 3.
Read the whole decision below:
