THE HAGUE, Netherlands — The International Criminal Court (ICC) has denied former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s request to postpone his first court appearance, said lawyer Salvador Medialdea, during a pretrial session on Friday night, Philippine time.
Duterte’s legal team had sought the postponement, citing reasons they believed justified a delay.
However, the ICC found these arguments insufficient to warrant a change in the schedule, ensuring that the proceedings continue as planned.
The ICC is investigating Duterte over accusations of extrajudicial killings linked to his anti-drug policies, which have been widely criticized by human rights organizations.
Duterte has denied any wrongdoing, asserting that his actions were lawful efforts to combat drug-related crime in the Philippines.
