Senator Dela Rosa: Fugitive or Victim of Political Intrigue?
The Philippine government is seeking to uphold an International Criminal Court warrant against Senator Ronald dela Rosa. Accused of crimes against humanity linked to the 'war on drugs,' Dela Rosa argues the ICC lacks jurisdiction post-Philippines' withdrawal. The government maintains it can enforce the warrant under national law.
The Philippine government's legal team has called on the Supreme Court to dismiss a petition by Senator Ronald dela Rosa, seeking to block his arrest. Dela Rosa is wanted by the International Criminal Court for crimes against humanity allegedly committed during a harsh anti-drug campaign.
A former police chief, Dela Rosa, oversaw much of the crackdown under then-President Rodrigo Duterte. He argues that the ICC no longer has jurisdiction following the Philippines' 2019 exit from the Rome Statute. Nonetheless, the Office of the Solicitor General contends that the country can still enforce the ICC's warrant through Republic Act 9851.
The SolGen's office stated that Dela Rosa's history of evading arrest demonstrates his intent to dodge accountability. Meanwhile, Dela Rosa recently received Senate protection, although his whereabouts remain unknown. The government's stance against impunity is clear: no refuge would be given to those who flout the law.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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