Duterte's interim release unlikely due to flight risk, witness intimidation fears

An ICC-accredited lawyer said former President Rodrigo Duterte's request for interim release is unlikely to be granted due to concerns about his potential flight risk and the risk of witness intimidation and evidence tampering.

The lawyer, Kristina Conti, highlighted that Duterte might refuse to return for court proceedings if released.

A human rights coalition has urged the ICC to deny Duterte's potential interim release petition, citing increased online harassment and threats from his supporters.

The coalition argues that keeping Duterte in ICC detention is necessary to ensure he does not pose a danger to victims and witnesses of his drug war.

Recent protests by Duterte supporters in the Netherlands and the Philippines were cited as factors making an interim release improbable.

The ICC allows interim release applications, but they must show 'extreme and urgent necessity,' which Duterte's case may not meet.

Families of drug war victims and human rights advocates called on the ICC to deny Duterte's bid for temporary release, stating he remains a 'threat.'