ICC rejects request for Duterte hearing delay

Metro Manila, Philippines – The International Criminal Court (ICC) rejected a request of former President Rodrigo Duterte’s counsel to delay the first hearing since the initial meeting did not require extensive legal preparation.

Former Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea urged the ICC Pre-Trial Chamber to postpone the substantive portion of the hearing, citing his lack of preparation and limited access to his client.

Medialdea also said Duterte was “denied all access to legal recourse” during his arrest by Philippine authorities and described the transfer of the former president to ICC custody as “a gross abuse of process.”

"It was a pure and simple kidnapping. My client was denied all access to legal recourse in the country of his citizenship," he told the chamber.

He said the arrest was highly politicized and unfair. "This transfer was anything other than a gross abuse of process, given the precipitous arrest," he added.

Medialdea also informed the court that Duterte has “debilitating health issues,” but ICC Presiding Judge Iulia Motoc said doctors had deemed him “mentally aware and fit.” She added that Duterte understood the charges against him.

"I believe that the court has taken specific measures when it comes to his health," said Motoc. "Duterte himself has confirmed that he is aware of his rights."

Medialdea requested another hearing next week, but the court declined.

"You have seen the decision, and these two requests were refused. This initial appearance hearing does not need much preparation, as I have said on a number of occasions," Motoc told Medialdea.

The ICC set the confirmation of charges hearing for Sept. 23, at which time the court will determine if there is sufficient evidence to proceed to trial.