The arrest and investigation of former Philippine President Duterte by the International Criminal Court (ICC) has caused significant concern and anxiety among Myanmar’s military council leader Min Aung Hlaing and other military leaders in Naypyidaw. Khin Yi, chairman of the military council’s Union Solidarity and Development Party, has publicly criticized the ICC’s actions, claiming they are erroneous. These statements were broadcast through military-affiliated Telegram channels.
Khin Yi argued that the ICC’s actions constitute an improper interference with national sovereignty and that it is incorrect for the court to seek legal jurisdiction over non-member states. He further claimed that the ICC’s actions disproportionately affect African and Asian nations while having little impact on certain other countries, suggesting a double standard in the court’s approach. He emphasized that when considering law enforcement within a nation, one cannot solely focus on human rights and equality but must also balance these concerns with sovereignty and the rule of law.
Former Philippine President Duterte faces ICC arrest warrants for crimes against humanity related to mass killings conducted under the guise of a drug enforcement campaign. The Philippine government arrested him 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 potential scenarios should the ICC issue warrants for his arrest. The arrest of former President Duterte has created a climate of apprehension and concern among military leaders in Naypyidaw, who are closely monitoring the situation and its implications for their own potential accountability before international justice mechanisms.
