ICC says Philippine ex-president Duterte fit to be tried

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has concluded that former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte is capable of standing trial for alleged crimes against humanity, the court declared on Thursday. The tribunal believes the 81-year-old is able to effectively exercise his rights during the proceedings, which are set to begin on November 30. This decision stems from the findings of an independent panel of experts and input from other parties involved, according to the court's ruling.

The experts determined that Duterte can comprehend the charges against him, the aims and effects of the proceedings, and follow the course of the trial. He also has the ability to understand the evidence presented and provide instructions to his legal counsel in preparing and conducting his defense, the ruling states.

Duterte appeared in person at the court for the first time in mid-September. He faces three counts of crimes against humanity, with prosecutors accusing him of involvement in at least 76 murders during his tenure as both mayor of Davao and president of the Philippines between 2016 and 2022. The ICC prosecutes individuals for the world's most grave offenses, such as war crimes and crimes against humanity.