Photo credit: ICC

The International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecution has opposed former president Rodrigo Duterte’s bid to indefinitely suspend proceedings in his crimes-against-humanity case, insisting that his claims of poor health — including alleged memory loss — are not enough to prove he is unfit to stand trial.

In a filing dated September 11, prosecutors said they are bringing in their own medical experts to independently assess Duterte’s condition. They also urged the court to consider appointing neutral specialists with experience in international trials, ensuring that the determination on his fitness is based on a broad and credible medical review.

While acknowledging that some delay may be necessary, the prosecution stressed that any adjournment should be short, limited only to the time needed to finalize medical evaluations. They emphasized that the confirmation of charges hearing should still move forward before the end of 2025.

“The proceedings cannot be adjourned indefinitely on the sole basis of the defence’s reports,” the prosecution argued, adding that the chamber should resolve the issue “expeditiously” to keep the case on track.