ICC judges find former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte fit to stand trial
THE HAGUE, Netherlands — Judges at the International Criminal Court ruled on Monday that former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte is fit to stand trial, after delaying a previous hearing due to concerns about his health.
Duterte is accused of crimes against humanity related to his alleged role in numerous killings during his anti-drug campaign as mayor and president.
Concerns were raised about Duterte’s health and his deteriorating condition while in detention at the court.
Duterte was arrested in March and his court appearance was postponed to assess his fitness for trial. The hearing was rescheduled to determine if he could actively participate in the legal process.
After evaluations by medical specialists, it was concluded that Duterte is capable of understanding the proceedings and is fit to engage in pre-trial activities.
The expert panel included professionals in neurology and psychiatry who conducted cognitive and physical assessments on Duterte to determine his readiness for trial.
