Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was poised for a landslide victory in the Davao mayoral race during the recent midterm elections, with preliminary counts showing he was leading by a significant margin, despite being detained by the International Criminal Court (ICC) on murder charges. With 80% of the votes counted, Duterte received eight times more votes than his closest competitor, underscoring his continued influence in Davao, where he is known for his aggressive anti-crime stance and infamous “war on drugs,” which resulted in numerous fatalities.
Supporters flocked to his old Facebook account, expressing their wishes for his return to serve Davao, reflecting a strong sentiment among his base despite his legal troubles. Duterte’s detention at the ICC—considered by many of his supporters as a politically motivated kidnapping—has only intensified loyalty towards him and his family.
Duterte could potentially become the first former head of state tried by the ICC, which asserts jurisdiction over crimes committed prior to Duterte’s 2019 withdrawal from its treaty. Allegations include involvement in extrajudicial killings linked to a “death squad” during his mayoralty, which Duterte has denied.
On the political front, Duterte’s family maintains their local influence, with both of his sons winning significant posts in the elections: one re-elected as a congressman and the other elected vice mayor. This political lineage remains vital, particularly as his daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, faces an impending impeachment trial that could impact her future in politics. She mentioned preparations for Rodrigo’s swearing-in as mayor, pending the official election proclamation.
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