Former President Rodrigo Duterte has collapsed twice while in detention in The Hague, according to his lawyer Nicholas Kaufman, who said the former leader is dealing with serious age-related and neurological conditions as his crimes against humanity case proceeds before the International Criminal Court (ICC).
Kaufman told the court that Duterte’s medical records indicate worsening physical frailty and cognitive decline.
“He is frail and has collapsed twice while in detention. His condition must be handled with respect and caution,” he said Monday.
The defense counsel explained that while Duterte retains long-term memory, his short-term memory loss makes it difficult for him to consistently follow legal developments.
“He is considerably weaker, frailer, and grayer. We are not presenting him publicly just for demonstration,” Kaufman added.
The defense has submitted additional medical evidence to bolster its renewed request for Duterte’s interim release, after earlier submissions citing his vulnerabilities were dismissed.
The ICC’s confirmation of charges hearing began February 23 and is set to run until February 27 in The Hague. The proceedings will determine whether Duterte will stand trial for crimes against humanity linked to his administration’s anti-illegal drug campaign.
Duterte previously waived his right to attend the hearing, rejecting the tribunal’s jurisdiction and citing his health and age.
“I do not wish to attend legal proceedings that I will forget within minutes. I am old, tired, and frail. I wish for this Court to respect my peace inside the cell it has placed me. I have accepted the fact that I could die in prison,” he said in his waiver.