ICC allows written testimony vs Duterte
The International Criminal Court has permitted the prosecution to use prior written testimony from a witness in the case against former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte. The court ruled that the defense will have the opportunity to cross-examine the witness to test the evidence's validity.
Why it matters
This procedural ruling is a significant step in the ongoing international legal scrutiny of the Duterte administration's policies.
MANILA, Philippines - The International Criminal Court has allowed the prosecution to introduce as evidence a prior testimony of one of its witnesses against former president Rodrigo Duterte.
In a 15-page decision released on Friday, the ICC Trial Chamber III granted the prosecution's first request to introduce the prior written testimony of the witness identified in the filings as "P-1100."
"[The Chamber] is satisfied that the substance of P-1100's evidence and the reports he produced appear relevant to the background and context in this case," the ruling read.
It rejected the defense's opposition to the request, saying the witness testimony will not be offered as expert evidence and there is no indication the prosecution will use it to support conclusions beyond his personal knowledge.
"The Chamber notes that witnesses often provide conclusions or opinions while testifying in court as well as in written statements," the judges ruled.
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