ICC prosecutor argues against Duterte's release, citing flight risk

The International Criminal Court (ICC) Prosecutor argued against former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte's pre-trial release, stating he remains a flight risk and a danger to others.

The prosecution contends that Duterte's continued detention does not outweigh the risks he poses if released.

The ICC filing countered the defense's claim of excessive detention, attributing delays to the defense itself, as they waited five months after Duterte's initial appearance to challenge his fitness for trial.

The ICC Prosecutor asked the tribunal's Pre-Trial Chamber I to dismiss the recent submissions of Duterte's camp for supposedly being irrelevant to its determination on interim release.

Deputy Prosecutor Mame Niang stated that Duterte's undisclosed offer does not lessen the risk he presents and is likely to further delay proceedings.

The ICC Prosecutor has charged Duterte with murder and frustrated murder over 49 incidents in his war on drugs when he was mayor of Davao City and as President of the Philippines.

In August, the former president reiterated his request to the ICC for an interim release to an undisclosed country, subject to any conditions deemed appropriate.