ICC says Philippine ex-president Duterte fit to stand trial

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has concluded that former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte is capable of standing trial for crimes against humanity, it announced on Thursday. The court determined that the 81-year-old is proficient enough to exercise his fair trial rights throughout the proceedings, set to commence on November 30th.

The decision was made following the review of an independent panel of experts and input from various stakeholders, according to the ruling. The evaluating committee confirmed that Duterte was able to comprehend the charges, grasp the purpose and ramifications of the proceedings, grasp the proceedings, understand the evidence, and direct his legal counsel in the preparation and execution of his defense.

Duterte, who led the Philippines from 2016 to 2022, is the first former Asian head of state to face charges at the ICC. The court is prosecuting him for three counts of crimes against humanity, accusing him of involvement in at least 76 murders during his tenure as both mayor and president of the Philippines between 2013 and 2018.