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, Khin Yi, has publicly criticized the ICC’s actions as erroneous. These comments were broadcast through military-affiliated Telegram channels, where Khin Yi claimed that the ICC’s actions constitute an interference with national sovereignty.
Khin Yi specifically addressed the ICC’s investigation of former President Duterte on charges of crimes against humanity at The Hague, Netherlands. He argued that the ICC’s actions represent an overreach of authority, particularly concerning nations that are not ICC members. He further claimed that the ICC’s enforcement appears selective, primarily affecting African and Asian nations while seemingly exempting certain other countries, suggesting a double standard in international justice implementation.
The arrest of Duterte, who faces charges related to mass killings under the guise of a drug enforcement campaign, was carried out by Philippine authorities on March 11, after which he was transferred to The Netherlands. This development has notably impacted Min Aung Hlaing and his family, who are themselves facing potential ICC arrest warrants. Sources indicate that Min Aung Hlaing has requested detailed reports regarding the implications of possible ICC arrest warrants, demonstrating the military leadership’s growing anxiety over potential international legal actions against them. The situation has created a palpable sense of unease among military officials in Naypyidaw, who are closely monitoring the ICC’s handling of the Duterte case as it may set precedents for their own potential legal challenges.
