MANILA, Philippines — Counsel for former president Rodrigo Duterte told the International Criminal Court that the defense would not oppose his continued detention while awaiting a ruling from the Appeals Chamber on a decision denying his release.
During a periodic review of Duterte’s detention, defense lawyer Nicholas Kaufman informed the Pre-Trial Chamber that the team had appealed its previous detention ruling.
“As your honors are aware, the defense has appealed the pre-trial chamber’s decision on the first detention review,” Kaufman said in open session. “Since we are still awaiting a judgment of the Appeals Chamber, the defense will not oppose the continuation of Mr. Duterte’s current detention.”
The hearing was convened under Article 118 of the Rome Statute, which requires the chamber to review a suspect’s detention at least once a year.
Presiding Judge Iulia Motoc clarified at the outset that arguments related to the pending appeal would not be entertained during the session.
Earlier in the proceedings, prosecutors maintained that there had been no change in circumstances warranting Duterte’s release. Legal representatives of participating victims likewise argued for his continued detention, citing risks of flight and interference with the proceedings.