Duterte's Legal Team Pushes for ICC Prosecutor Khan's Removal Citing Conflict of Interest

2025-08-08
Duterte's Legal Team Pushes for ICC Prosecutor Khan's Removal Citing Conflict of Interest
The Manila Times

Duterte's Legal Team Challenges ICC Prosecutor in Conflict of Interest Move

MANILA, Philippines – Former President Rodrigo Duterte's legal team is escalating its fight against the International Criminal Court (ICC) investigation into his administration’s “war on drugs.” They have formally requested the ICC Appeals Chamber to disqualify Prosecutor Karim Khan from continuing to oversee the case, alleging a serious conflict of interest.

The move, announced earlier this week, centers on perceived biases and potential conflicts stemming from Prosecutor Khan’s previous engagements and public statements. The lawyers argue that these factors compromise his impartiality and ability to conduct a fair and unbiased investigation.

What's the Conflict of Interest?

The core of the legal challenge revolves around Prosecutor Khan's prior work representing individuals and entities that are seen as potentially opposing Duterte’s interests. Specific details of these past engagements are being presented to the ICC Appeals Chamber as evidence supporting the claim of a conflict.

The legal team contends that Khan's history raises reasonable doubts about his objectivity in assessing the evidence and making decisions related to the case. They believe his past professional relationships could unconsciously influence his judgment, ultimately hindering a just outcome.

ICC Investigation & Duterte's Stance

The ICC investigation, launched in 2021, focuses on alleged crimes against humanity committed during Duterte's presidency, primarily concerning the thousands of deaths linked to the government's anti-drug campaign. Duterte has consistently rejected the ICC's jurisdiction, asserting that the Philippines has its own functioning legal system capable of addressing any wrongdoing.

He has repeatedly vowed not to cooperate with the ICC and has publicly criticized the court's actions, labeling it as an intrusion into Philippine sovereignty.

Legal Arguments & Potential Impact

Duterte's lawyers are meticulously building their case, providing detailed legal arguments and supporting documentation to the ICC Appeals Chamber. They are requesting a thorough review of Prosecutor Khan's background and a determination of whether his continued involvement poses a genuine threat to the fairness of the proceedings.

If the Appeals Chamber grants the request, it would be a significant blow to the ICC investigation. The court would then need to appoint a new prosecutor to take over the case, potentially delaying proceedings and requiring a reassessment of the evidence already gathered.

Reactions & Future Steps

The move has sparked varied reactions in the Philippines. Supporters of Duterte have lauded the legal team's efforts, seeing it as a defense of national sovereignty. Critics, however, argue that it is an attempt to obstruct justice and evade accountability for alleged human rights violations.

The ICC Appeals Chamber is now reviewing the legal team’s petition. A decision on whether to disqualify Prosecutor Khan is expected in the coming weeks or months. The outcome will have a profound impact on the future of the ICC investigation and the potential for accountability regarding the “war on drugs.”

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