ICC Sets November 30 Start for Duterte Crimes Against Humanity Trial

Judges at the International Criminal Court set November 30 as the start date for the trial of former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte on charges of crimes against humanity. The decision came during a status conference on May 27. Presiding Judge Joanna Korner said the trial will run daily until judicial recess.

Korner rejected a request from court registry staff to delay the date over translator shortages. She directed staff to secure interpretation in Tagalog and other Philippine languages. Duterte must appear in person for the November proceedings. All prior hearings occurred without his presence after he waived the right to attend.

Prosecutors allege Duterte oversaw killings during anti-drug operations both as Davao mayor and as president from 2016 to 2022. The court confirmed three counts of crimes against humanity in April. " — Presiding Judge Joanna Korner, May 27 (Abc News) Philippine national police reported more than 6,000 deaths during Duterte's term. Human rights groups have cited figures up to 30,000.

Earlier this month the court unsealed an arrest warrant for Ronald Marapon dela Rosa, Duterte's former national police chief. Dela Rosa is accused of helping implement the same operations and is now in hiding after a Senate standoff involving gunfire. Duterte was arrested in the Philippines last year and transferred to The Hague. He denies the charges.