The International Criminal Court has confirmed charges of crimes against humanity against former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, ordering that he face trial. Judges said there are substantial grounds to believe he was responsible for murders carried out during his so-called war on drugs.
The court ruled on Thursday that Duterte played a key role in the killing of 76 people and the attempted murder of two others. Prosecutors allege that thousands were killed during the anti-drugs campaign carried out while he was in office between 2016 and 2022.
The ICC said evidence shows a common plan involving Duterte and others to target alleged criminals, including suspected drug users and dealers, through violent operations. Duterte, who was arrested in the Philippines last year, denies the charges and insists police were only instructed to use force in self-defence.
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It remains unclear whether the 81-year-old will attend the trial, with his defence team saying he is not fit to follow proceedings. The court has previously taken up to a year between confirming charges and the start of a full trial.
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