đź“·Former Bayan Muna Rep. Neri Colmenares
In light of the recent announcement by confessed drug lord Rolan “Kerwin” Espinosa regarding his willingness to testify at the International Criminal Court (ICC) about the Duterte administration’s controversial drug war, former Bayan Muna Congressman Neri Colmenares emphasized the importance of Espinosa providing a sworn statement to substantiate his claims.
“Espinosa’s testimony could be pivotal if he can directly link former President Rodrigo Duterte and former PNP Chief Sen. Ronald Dela Rosa to the extrajudicial killings during the drug war,” Colmenares, who represents families of EJK victims, stated. “For his testimony to hold weight, it must be accompanied by a sworn and notarized statement.”
Colmenares suggested that Espinosa should first testify at the ongoing House quad committee hearings, which are scrutinizing the drug war. “A press statement is merely the first step; a formal, sworn testimony is essential to progress,” Colmenares noted.
He outlined two potential paths for Espinosa’s involvement with the ICC: either through collaboration with the victims’ families’ counsel or direct communication with the ICC prosecutor. “Should Espinosa possess credible information on the operations behind the EJKs, he could serve as an insider witness, providing invaluable insights into the systemic nature of these events,” Colmenares added.
The former congressman reiterated the crucial role that comprehensive testimony from individuals like Espinosa could play in holding accountable those responsible for the thousands of killings that marked the previous administration’s campaign against illegal drugs.
Colmenares concluded by urging thorough preparation and transparency from Espinosa, stressing that this is a crucial step toward justice and accountability for the victims of the drug war.#
