In a recent development in the Philippines, the drug trafficking charges filed against opposition senator and vocal critic of President Rodrigo Duterte, Leila de Lima, have been dismissed by a court in Manila. The decision was made by the Muntinlupa City Regional Trial Court, citing insufficient evidence against de Lima.
De Lima was accused of being involved in the illegal drug trade during her time as Justice Secretary under the previous administration. She has vehemently denied these allegations, claiming that they are politically motivated and a retaliation for her criticism of Duterte’s administration, particularly his brutal war on drugs that has resulted in thousands of deaths.
The dismissal of the charges against de Lima was welcomed by human rights groups and activists who have been advocating for her release. Amnesty International Philippines called it a “step towards justice,” while the Human Rights Watch said that the charges were “always weak and politically motivated.”
De Lima has been detained since February 2017 and has been a vocal critic of the Duterte administration from behind bars. Her case has garnered international attention, with several governments and human rights organizations calling for her release and for the charges against her to be dropped.
Duterte’s war on drugs has been highly controversial, with critics accusing the government of extrajudicial killings and human rights abuses. The government, however, has defended its approach, saying that it is necessary to combat the country’s drug problem.
The dismissal of the charges against de Lima is seen as a significant victory for the opposition in the Philippines and for human rights advocates who have been pushing for a more transparent and accountable government. However, the government has yet to comment on the ruling, and it remains to be seen if they will appeal the decision.