Defense revives bid for Duterte’s ICC release

National

INSISTING he poses “no flight risk,” former president Rodrigo Duterte has asked the International Criminal Court (ICC) to grant him interim release to an undisclosed country.

Defense lawyer Nicholas Kaufman filed the renewed request on August 18, an eight-page version of which was made public Wednesday night. The move came after the ICC Pre-Trial Chamber I earlier agreed to suspend ruling on Duterte’s initial request, following the defense team’s appeal for more time to prepare.

The redacted document indicated Kaufman’s assurance that Duterte would not interfere with witnesses or commit further crimes. He also said the unnamed country mentioned in previous submissions remains ready to accept Duterte, cooperate with the Court, and enforce any release conditions.

Kaufman argued that objections to the request “are either negligible or negotiable” and suggested his client could attend proceedings via videoconference if required.

The ICC prosecution and victims’ counsel have opposed Duterte’s release, warning of risks to witnesses.

In a Philstar report, deputy Prosecutor Mame Mandiaye Niang objected to Duterte being transferred to the country proposed by his camp, saying it “is not an appropriate state to host” him as it lacks a record of extensive cooperation with the Court.

Meanwhile, Duterte’s family continues to visit him in The Hague ahead of his confirmation of charges hearing on September 23.

Vice President Sara Duterte traveled there earlier this week after stops in Kuwait and Paris, marking her fourth trip since her father’s arrest and transfer to ICC custody on March 11. She was accompanied by her youngest sister, Veronica, known as Kitty.

Kitty described the visit as “very cheerful and lively,” recalling that her father welcomed them warmly and even joked around during their conversation. She said the former president has asked to see all four of his children together during a future visit, which they are arranging for the end of this month or early next month.

Although noting her father has grown thin, Kitty said he is eating well and remains in good spirits, expressing gratitude to his supporters and sharing advice with his daughters during their meeting.(MyTVCebu)