A human rights lawyers’ group on Tuesday called on the International Criminal Court (ICC) to reject former President Rodrigo Duterte’s request for interim release as it may “directly threaten” the safety of victims and “jeopardize” the integrity of his pending prosecution.

Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has petitioned the International Criminal Court to allow his interim release to another country, his lawyer said in a filing, citing his advanced age and a vow not to flee or commit any crimes.

Rodrigo Duterte, the former president of the Philippines, has asked the International Criminal Court (ICC) to grant him interim release to an unnamed country. His lawyer, Nicolas Kaufman, submitted the request on June 12,