ICC Judges Face Disqualification Request Over Drug War Case
The camp of former President Rodrigo Duterte has formally asked the International Criminal Court to disqualify two judges from his crimes against humanity case related to the drug war. This request aims to ensure impartial judgment during the ongoing proceedings.
In an 11-page corrigendum dated May 12, Duterte’s legal team petitioned The Presidency of the ICC to remove Judge Reine Adélaïde Sophie Alapini-Gansou and Judge María del Socorro Flores Lierarom from handling jurisdiction matters in the case.
They argued, “The Defence’s request to disqualify the Judges will ensure the autonomy and irreproachability of the judges as well as the efficient conduct of the proceedings by engendering a minimum degree of disturbance to the Chamber’s current composition.” The petition further stated, “The recourse sought will, simultaneously, preserve Mr. Duterte’s right to objectively impartial adjudication.”
Understanding the ICC Judges Disqualification Process
Previously, the ICC Pre-Trial Chamber 1 rejected Duterte’s appeal to excuse Judges Alapini-Gansou and Flores Liera. The court clarified that a judge may only request excusal from the presidency, while parties involved can seek disqualification.
The Presidency, one of the ICC’s four main organs, includes the President and the First and Second Vice-Presidents. They hold the authority to decide on such disqualification requests.
Current Status and Upcoming Proceedings
At present, Duterte remains under the ICC’s custody in The Hague, Netherlands. The confirmation of charges hearing is scheduled for September 23, 2025.
Addressing concerns about Duterte’s recent election, ICC assistant to counsel Atty. Kristina Conti emphasized, “And to be straight to the point, Duterte’s election will not hinder, hasten, or stop the ICC proceedings.”
Overall, the request to disqualify the judges highlights the ongoing legal complexities as the ICC continues to handle this high-profile case related to the drug war.