The International Criminal Court’s (ICC) arrest and investigation of former Philippine President Duterte has caused significant concern among Myanmar’s military leadership, particularly Min Aung Hlaing and other military commanders in Naypyidaw. In response to this development, Khin Yi, chairman of the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP), has publicly criticized the ICC’s actions, claiming they are misguided and inappropriate.
Khin Yi argued that the ICC’s prosecution of former President Duterte on charges of crimes against humanity represents an infringement on national sovereignty. He specifically pointed out what he perceives as a double standard in the ICC’s operations, suggesting that the court’s actions predominantly affect African and Asian nations while having limited impact on other countries. He emphasized that the ICC’s jurisdiction over non-member states is problematic and violates principles of national sovereignty.
The case involves the arrest of former Philippine President Duterte on March 11, who was subsequently transferred to The Hague, Netherlands, following an ICC warrant related to alleged crimes committed during his anti-drug campaign, which resulted in numerous civilian deaths. This development has reportedly triggered serious concerns within Myanmar’s military leadership, particularly as the ICC is preparing to issue arrest warrants for Min Aung Hlaing and his associates. Sources indicate that Min Aung Hlaing has requested detailed reports analyzing potential scenarios should the ICC proceed with arrest warrants against him and other military leaders. The situation has created a notable atmosphere of apprehension among the military leadership in Naypyidaw, as they observe the international community’s willingness to act against former heads of state accused of human rights violations.
