Filipino human rights lawyer Neri Colmenares said on Saturday, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte may soon face possible arrest after preliminary examination by the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) ends next year over allegations of crimes against humanity.
“Once it is with the chamber, it is now possible for the prosecutor to request for the issuance of a warrant of arrest,” Colmenares said.
Colmenares, chair of National Union of People’s Lawyers predicted that the last two years of Mr. Duterte in office would be more difficult for him “if a warrant is issued for his arrest worldwide.”
Colmenares called on families of victims of extrajudicial killings “to also come forward, submit evidence and tell their story so we can send these additional evidence before the prosecution decides.”
He said ICC prosecutor Fatou Bensouda is mandated to accept new evidence.
Colmenares noted that “she has not dismissed the case for inadmissibility this late, shows that the probable cause chances are good.” (Source: Inquirer.net)