Senator's Legal Battle: Standing Against ICC's Arrest Warrant
Philippine Senator Ronald dela Rosa, wanted by the International Criminal Court for alleged crimes against humanity, vows to oppose extradition. The ICC charged him with murder linked to 32 deaths during his tenure enforcing former President Duterte's anti-drug campaign. Dela Rosa insists on facing charges locally.
Senator Ronald dela Rosa of the Philippines has declared his intent to fight extradition to the International Criminal Court (ICC) following the unsealing of an arrest warrant. The ICC accuses him of crimes against humanity related to his enforcement of the anti-drug campaign initiated by former President Rodrigo Duterte.
Dela Rosa, who headed the national police during Duterte's presidency, denies condoning extrajudicial killings. He argues he should answer any charges in Philippine courts, not before an international body. He has requested President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. not to allow his extradition to The Hague.
As a political ally of Duterte, Dela Rosa facilitated the deadly crackdown on illegal drugs that resulted in thousands of deaths. The decision of whether he will be surrendered to the ICC remains unclear, although officials have indicated readiness to comply under Philippine law addressing crimes against humanity.
(With inputs from agencies.)
Google News