The International Criminal Court (ICC) has indefinitely postponed the confirmation of charges hearing against former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte, pending a decision on whether he is fit to stand trial.
In a ruling issued on Monday, September 8, judges from the ICC’s Pre-Trial Chamber I agreed to suspend proceedings after Duterte’s defense team filed a request asserting that the former leader is medically and mentally unfit to participate in the case.
Duterte faces crimes against humanity charges in connection with the controversial “war on drugs,” a campaign launched during his presidency that has drawn international condemnation for alleged extrajudicial killings. The confirmation of charges hearing, a critical stage that determines whether the case will move to full trial, was originally scheduled for this month.
According to the ICC decision, the chamber must first establish Duterte’s ability to stand trial before moving forward. “The Chamber considers it appropriate to defer the confirmation of charges hearing until a determination is made regarding the accused’s fitness to participate in the proceedings,” the judges stated.
Human rights advocates expressed concern that the postponement could delay justice for victims and their families. “This move underscores the need for transparency and urgency in the process,” said a spokesperson for an international rights watchdog, warning against tactics that could prolong accountability.
Meanwhile, Duterte’s supporters welcomed the decision, claiming it recognizes the former president’s deteriorating health and protects his rights as an accused individual.
The ICC has yet to announce a timeline for resolving the fitness-to-stand-trial issue. Until then, the case against Duterte remains on hold, further prolonging a legal battle that has drawn global attention since the court authorized the investigation.