Manila, Philippines – In a significant development, Nobel Peace Prize winner Maria Ressa has welcomed the arrest of former Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte, stating that it sends a powerful message that “impunity ends”.
Ressa, a vocal critic of Duterte’s regime, emphasized that this development marks a crucial milestone in the pursuit of accountability. Duterte’s presidency was marred by controversy, including a brutal anti-drug campaign that resulted in thousands of extrajudicial killings.
As a journalist, Ressa played a key role in exposing these abuses and advocating for press freedom. Her own experiences under Duterte’s regime were marked by harassment and intimidation, including numerous arrest warrants and a cyber libel conviction in 2020.
Ressa’s statement underscores the significance of Duterte’s arrest, emphasizing that it demonstrates those in power will be held accountable for their actions. Her remarks echoed her Nobel Peace Prize lecture, where she stressed the importance of facts, truth, and trust in democracy.
The arrest of Duterte has sparked widespread reaction, with many hailing it as a victory for justice and human rights. Ressa’s endorsement adds weight to the growing calls for accountability and transparency in the Philippines.
