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 leadership in Naypyidaw, including coup leader Min Aung Hlaing. The chairman of the military council’s Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP), Khin Yi, has publicly criticized the ICC’s actions as erroneous, making these statements through military-affiliated Telegram channels. He argued that the ICC’s jurisdiction over non-member states constitutes a violation of national sovereignty.
The ICC’s investigation of Duterte relates to crimes against humanity charges stemming from his violent anti-drug campaign in the Philippines. The Philippine government arrested Duterte on March 11 and transferred him to The Hague, Netherlands, for prosecution. This development has particularly resonated with Min Aung Hlaing and other military leaders in Myanmar, as the ICC is also preparing arrest warrants against them. Sources indicate that Min Aung Hlaing has requested reports analyzing potential scenarios should the ICC issue warrants for his arrest and that of his family members.
Khin Yi specifically criticized the ICC’s legal proceedings, arguing that the court’s actions against non-member states represent an overreach of authority and an infringement on national sovereignty. He further suggested that the ICC’s enforcement appears selective, primarily targeting African and Asian nations while seemingly avoiding action against certain other countries, potentially indicating a double standard in international justice. The military council’s response to these developments reflects their growing concern about potential international legal accountability for actions committed against Myanmar’s civilian population.
