Alexander Sammon
Updated on: October 17, 2024 4:07 am GMT
Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte is once again making headlines as he officially registered to run for mayor of Davao City. The announcement, made on October 7, has sparked a mix of reactions, considering Duterte’s controversial legacy from his time as president, particularly his severe anti-drug campaign.
Duterte’s Return to Local Politics
At 79 years old, Duterte is returning to a position he held for nearly two decades before becoming president in 2016. His candidacy for mayor comes amid ongoing scrutiny from human rights groups and investigations by the International Criminal Court (ICC), which is looking into possible crimes against humanity related to his administration’s drug policies.
- Duterte has filed his candidacy papers with the Election Commission in Davao.
- His son, Sebastian Duterte, currently the city’s mayor, will run as his vice mayor for the upcoming midterm elections.
During his presidency, Duterte promoted a harsh anti-drugs campaign that, according to government figures, led to the deaths of more than 6,000 people, many of whom were poor drug suspects. Human rights advocates argue that the actual number is much higher, citing numerous unresolved killings linked to a climate of violence that spiked during his tenure.
Controversies Surrounding His Presidency
Duterte’s approach to fighting illegal drugs drew both support and condemnation. While many in the Philippines lauded his tough stance on crime, critics pointed to the extrajudicial killings that became rampant. The former president has denied endorsing this violence, although he had openly threatened drug suspects during his speeches.
Notably, Duterte promised during his 2016 campaign to eliminate the drug problem within three to six months. However, he later acknowledged the issue persisted at alarming levels, stating he had underestimated its complexity.
In 2019, Duterte withdrew the Philippines from the ICC, a move perceived by many as an attempt to evade accountability for the bloody anti-drug campaign. The ICC has maintained it still holds jurisdiction over allegations from Duterte’s presidency.
Current Political Climate
Since stepping down in 2022, Duterte claimed he would retire from politics. Yet, his recent decision to run for mayor reflects a possible comeback in local governance. His family, too, remains prominent in Philippine politics, as his daughter and current Vice President, Sara Duterte, had earlier indicated plans for her father and brothers to seek Senate positions.
Despite being out of the presidential office, Duterte’s popularity remains relatively stable, though he faces strong opposition from human rights groups and political rivals who are expected to counteract his return.
Duterte’s Conflict with Current Leadership
Duterte’s relationship with his successor, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., has been rocky. He has criticized Marcos publicly, calling him a weak leader and labeling him a drug addict. In response, Marcos has dismissed Duterte’s claims, referring to him as a user of fentanyl, a potent opioid.
The political rift is evident, further highlighted by Sara Duterte’s resignation in July from key positions in the Marcos administration. This development reflects growing tensions over policy differences, including the Marcos government’s approach to China and bolstered ties with the United States.
The Upcoming Election
As Davao City heads towards the midterm elections, the political landscape is set to be competitive. Duterte’s past, shadowed by his administration’s violent legacy, looms large over his campaign.
- Voter sentiment will be critical: Many voters in Davao may still support Duterte’s approach to crime, influencing his potential success.
- Human rights groups have already begun mobilizing efforts to challenge his candidacy, reflecting the contentious atmosphere surrounding the election.
As campaign activities ramp up, the focus will be on how Duterte addresses his past while attempting to regain a leadership role in Davao.
Conclusion
Rodrigo Duterte has decided to run for mayor in Davao City, which brings up important questions about responsibility and what Filipino voters really care about. His time as president was known for a tough approach to fighting drugs, which makes his new political plans interesting. With both strong support and loud critics, the upcoming election is sure to show a lot about Philippine politics. As the country looks ahead, the differences between Duterte’s past actions and today’s government will definitely get people talking.
