MANILA — The International Criminal Court (ICC) said that Rodrigo Duterte’s rights as an accused have been upheld, contrary to the claims by the former president’s counsel Salvador Medialdea.

During Duterte’s first appearance before the ICC Pre-Trial Chamber 1  on Friday, Medialdea claimed that his client’s arrest was pure and simple kidnapping.

Medialdea asked the ICC to postpone the hearing next week, which the ICC rejected.

Presiding Judge Iulia Antoanella Motoc said the next hearing is set on Sept 23 for the confirmation of charges against Duterte.