Victims participating in the International Criminal Court (ICC) proceedings against former President Rodrigo Duterte have urged judges to deny his renewed request for interim release, warning that his freedom could endanger their safety and undermine the trial.
In a redacted public filing submitted by the Office of Public Counsel for Victims (OPCV), participants expressed deep concern over the potential for reprisals from Duterte’s supporters should he be released—even under strict conditions.
“Victims also oppose the Renewed Request on the basis that their security and well-being will be put in danger,” the filing stated.
The OPCV emphasized that Duterte continues to wield significant influence and now has access to sensitive case materials, including the identities of prosecution witnesses.
These factors, they argued, increase the risk of intimidation and obstruction of justice.
“The fact that Mr. Duterte has now access to a great part of the evidence, including identities of the Prosecution witnesses, and that he continues to wield considerable power and support, are all important factors that make his continued detention necessary and justified in order to ensure his presence at trial and to avoid the obstruction of the Court’s proceedings,” the filing added.
Duterte’s confirmation of charges hearing is scheduled for September 23, six months after he was transferred to ICC custody in The Hague on March 12.
In a separate filing, Duterte’s legal team informed the Chamber that it has prepared a list of evidence to be presented at the upcoming hearing.
However, they noted that a still-redacted issue must be resolved before proceedings can move forward.
The Defense also raised ethical concerns regarding Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan, citing his previous representation of Filipino victims in an earlier ICC communication.
They questioned whether Khan had fully withdrawn from those clients and disclosed the matter during his application for the prosecutor’s post.
The Defense requested notification if any current victim applicants are linked to Khan’s former clients. (Argyll Geducos)
