Senator Risa Hontiveros said that President Rodrigo Duterte’s recent admission of ruling the country in a ‘dictatorial style’ just strengthened the allegations that he committed a violation against human rights in the drug war that he founded.
“The president’s remarks may have incriminated himself against the criminal offenses filed against him before the International Criminal Court’s (ICC),” the senator said, adding that Duterte only made it easier for the international tribunal to see the truth behind the indictments.
“I am sure that the ICC is taking due notice of the President’s latest statement, especially as it conducts its preliminary examination into his alleged crimes. The ICC was created precisely to prosecute those who have committed crimes against humanity, many of whom were dictators. By admitting that he is a dictator, voluntarily and without pressure from anyone, President Duterte just made the ICC’s job simpler,” Hontiveros said in a statement.
She added that the ICC will use the recent public admission of Duterte, including his previous undemocratic actions as evidence that he has abused his power.
(DAILY NEWS ROUND UP FOR 02/ 12 /18)