The International Criminal Court’s (ICC) arrest and investigation of former Philippine President Duterte has caused significant concern among Myanmar’s military council leader Min Aung Hlaing and military leaders in Naypyidaw. Khin Yee, chairman of the military council’s Union Solidarity and Development Party, has publicly criticized the ICC’s actions as erroneous. His analysis was broadcast through military-affiliated Telegram channels, where he claimed the ICC’s actions constitute interference with national sovereignty.
Khin Yee specifically addressed the ICC’s investigation of former President Duterte in The Hague, Netherlands, on charges of crimes against humanity. He argued that the ICC’s jurisdiction over non-member states is inappropriate and violates national sovereignty. Furthermore, he accused the ICC of maintaining double standards, suggesting that its actions disproportionately affect African and Asian nations while having little impact on other countries. He emphasized that law enforcement and human rights considerations must be balanced against national sovereignty, arguing against what he termed a one-sided approach to international justice.
The Philippine government arrested Duterte on March 11 and transferred him to the Netherlands. Duterte faces ICC arrest warrants related to alleged crimes committed during his anti-drug campaign, which resulted in numerous deaths. The ICC is currently proceeding with its investigation. This development has notably impacted Min Aung Hlaing and his family, who are also facing potential ICC arrest warrants. Reports indicate that Min Aung Hlaing has ordered assessments of possible scenarios following these developments. The arrest of former President Duterte has created a wave of anxiety among military leaders in Naypyidaw, who are closely monitoring the situation and its potential implications for their own circumstances.
