ICC Rules Former Philippine President Duterte Fit for Trial

Judges at the International Criminal Court (ICC) have ruled that former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte is fit to stand trial for alleged crimes against humanity. Duterte is accused of being criminally responsible for numerous murders under his "war on drugs" policy, which resulted in the deaths of thousands.

Duterte's Legal Challenge

Duterte's legal team had previously argued that the 80-year-old was unfit to participate in the ICC proceedings. He has been detained at The Hague since March of last year.

Judges' Verdict on Fitness

The ICC judges, citing opinions from a panel of medical experts, stated they were "satisfied" that Duterte is "able effectively to exercise his procedural rights and is therefore fit to take part in the pre-trial proceedings."

The judges also clarified that the mental capacities required to "meaningfully exercise one's procedural and fair trial rights" do not need to be "at their notionally highest level."

Next Steps: Confirmation of Charges

A "confirmation of charges" hearing has been scheduled for February 23. During this hearing, judges will decide whether the prosecution's case against Duterte is strong enough to proceed to a full trial.