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 other military leaders in Naypyidaw. The chairman of the military council’s Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP), Khin Yi, has publicly criticized the ICC’s actions as erroneous. These comments were broadcast through military-affiliated Telegram channels, where Khin Yi argued that the ICC’s actions constitute an improper interference with national sovereignty.
Khin Yi specifically pointed out that the ICC’s jurisdiction over non-member states is problematic and represents a violation of national sovereignty. He further criticized the ICC’s approach as showing a double standard, suggesting that its actions disproportionately affect African and Asian nations while having little impact on certain other countries. He emphasized that when considering law enforcement within a nation, it’s necessary to balance human rights and equality with respect for national sovereignty and the rule of law, rather than taking a one-sided approach.
Former Philippine President Duterte faces charges at the ICC related to crimes against humanity for the numerous killings carried out under his anti-drug campaign. The Philippine government arrested Duterte on March 11 and transferred him to the ICC in The Hague, Netherlands, where he is currently under investigation. This development has had a notable impact on Min Aung Hlaing and his family, who are also facing potential ICC arrest warrants. Reports indicate that Min Aung Hlaing has ordered the preparation of reports regarding possible scenarios following Duterte’s arrest, reflecting the military leadership’s growing anxiety about potential international legal action against them. The arrest of Duterte has created a wave of apprehension among military officials in Naypyidaw, who are increasingly concerned about their own vulnerability to international prosecution.
