Duterte’s lawyer argues case should be dismissed before trial

Rodrigo Duterte's lead lawyer Nicholas Kaufman stated on Sunday there was a 'compelling' argument to dismiss the International Criminal Court (ICC) case against the former Philippine president before it goes to trial.

Kaufman argues that the Philippines' withdrawal from the ICC took effect well before an investigation was authorized, challenging the court's jurisdiction over Duterte's alleged crimes.

The ICC prosecutor accuses Duterte of committing crimes against humanity through his 'war on drugs', which led to thousands of deaths, primarily among poor men without substantial evidence linking them to drug activities.

A confirmation-of-charges hearing is scheduled for September 23, where both the prosecution and defense will present their evidence.

Kaufman also criticized Duterte's arrest as a violation of due process, calling it an 'extrajudicial rendition' that contravenes Philippine law.

The former president is currently detained in The Hague under ICC custody while awaiting further legal proceedings.