A pre-trial chamber of the International Criminal Court (ICC) has revoked its appointment of a second neuropsychologist in the legal proceedings targeting former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, the court confirmed Thursday.
The panel’s decision comes amid objections from both the defence and the prosecution regarding the expert’s suitability and impartiality. The neuropsychologist’s removal marks a significant procedural development in a case already burdened by multiple challenges.
Duterte, who served as president from 2016 to 2022, is facing charges at The Hague of crimes against humanity linked to his controversial domestic “war on drugs”. The case is deep in its pre-trial phase.
Court documents show that the remaining members of the medical and expert teams will be reviewed to ensure compliance with the ICC’s requirements for fairness and objectivity. Defence lawyers had raised concerns over conflicts of interest and competence of the experts involved.
The ICC’s move will likely prompt further scrutiny of the court’s expert selection and oversight processes in high-profile cases. Analysts say the decision underscores the logistical and legal complexities inherent in prosecuting former national leaders. The next steps in the pre-trial proceedings will depend in part on the reconstitution of the panel and whether new experts are appointed.
For now, the court has not announced a replacement or timeline for submission of revised expert reports.
