By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA, Philippines — International Criminal Court (ICC) Presiding Judge Joanna Korner assured Wednesday that all matters related to the case against former President Rodrigo Duterte would only be discussed within official court proceedings, stressing that the tribunal remains committed to impartiality and transparency.
During the first status conference conducted by ICC Trial Chamber III, Korner disclosed that she has personally known ICC prosecutor Julian Nicholls and Duterte’s lead defense counsel Peter Haynes for more than 20 years, citing the relatively small circle of practitioners in international criminal law.
explained that judges and lawyers involved in international tribunals often cross paths during legal forums, seminars, and social functions, making such encounters unavoidable.
She emphasized, however, that these interactions would never include discussions concerning Duterte’s case.
“We are likely to meet again at seminars and social functions, but there will be no discussion whatsoever of this case between parties and the judges at any such functions,” Korner said.
She added that personal acquaintance among legal professionals would not influence the conduct of proceedings or any future rulings of the court.
The proceedings were held before ICC Trial Chamber III, composed of Presiding Judge Joanna Korner, Judge Keebong Paek, and Judge Nicolas Guillou.
Duterte is currently under ICC custody while facing charges of crimes against humanity in connection with his administration’s anti-illegal drug campaign.
Official government records previously placed the number of deaths linked to anti-drug operations at around 6,000, while human rights organizations estimate the figure may have reached more than 30,000, including minors allegedly killed during the campaign.
ia/xf
