International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutors told judges that former President Rodrigo Duterte is fit to stand trial, citing unanimous findings by a panel of court-appointed medical experts that he can meaningfully exercise his rights despite his age and physical frailty.
In written observations submitted to Pre-Trial Chamber I, the Office of the Prosecutor said the panel concluded that Duterte understands the charges and evidence against him, can follow the purpose and consequences of pre-trial proceedings, and is capable of instructing counsel for his defense.
“The unanimous findings of the Experts’ Reports demonstrate that Mr Duterte is capable of meaningfully exercising his procedural and fair trial rights,” the prosecution said, urging judges to resume confirmation proceedings without further delay.
While acknowledging that Duterte is elderly and physically frail, the experts recommended practical accommodations during hearings — including regular breaks and shorter sessions — which prosecutors said facilitate participation, not indicate incapacity.
The defense contested the assessment, arguing that Duterte’s short-term memory impairment prevents him from meaningfully participating or instructing lawyers.
“Mr. Duterte is incapable of following a trial, of exercising appropriate discretion, and of making informed decisions or instructing counsel effectively,” they said.
Duterte’s lawyers added that the experts’ reports contain internal inconsistencies and urged judges to independently assess whether his cognitive deficits hinder his ability to retain and process information in real time.
Judges are expected to rule on Duterte’s fitness to stand trial before deciding whether to proceed with the confirmation of charges hearing.