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. Duterte, who was arrested on March 11 by Philippine authorities and transferred to The Hague, Netherlands, is being investigated for crimes against humanity related to his deadly drug war campaign that resulted in numerous extrajudicial killings. The ICC is currently conducting its investigation into these allegations.
In response to this development, Khin Yi, chairman of the military-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP), has criticized the ICC’s actions, claiming they violate national sovereignty. He argued that the ICC’s jurisdiction over non-member states is inappropriate and represents a flawed approach to international justice. Khin Yi further alleged that the ICC demonstrates a bias by primarily targeting African and Asian nations while appearing to exempt certain other countries from scrutiny, suggesting a double standard in the court’s operations.
The arrest and investigation of Duterte has had a notable impact on Min Aung Hlaing and his family, prompting him to request reports on potential scenarios should the ICC issue arrest warrants against Myanmar’s military leadership. The successful arrest and prosecution of a former head of state has created a wave of anxiety among military leaders in Naypyidaw. Currently, the ICC is also investigating crimes committed by the Myanmar military against the Rohingya population, and there are reports that the court is preparing to issue arrest warrants for Min Aung Hlaing and other military leaders. This development has heightened concerns among Myanmar’s military leadership about potential international legal consequences for their actions.
