The European Union joined the international community in celebrating former Senator Leila de Lima’s acquittal of all ‘politically motivated’ criminal charges against her.
“On 24 June, after spending almost seven years in pre-trial detention in the Philippines, former Senator Leila de Lima and her co-defendants were acquitted of the last criminal charge against them by the Muntinlupa Regional Trial Court,” EU Lead Spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Peter Stano said in a statement.
“The European Union trusts that this decision is final,” the added.
The EU supported the fundamental freedoms that were embodied in this monumental decision from the court and welcomed the Philippines’ commitment to fulfill “international obligations on the rule of law, human rights, fundamental freedoms and the independence of the judiciary, as well as the right of everyone to a fair and speedy trial.”
“Rule of law, human rights, fundamental freedoms and the independence of the judiciary, as well as the right of everyone to a fair and speedy trial. These are key elements of any democracy and must therefore be protected, respected and promoted,” Stano noted.
US, Australia, and Germany have released their statements welcoming the acquittal of De Lima.
US Spokesperson Matthew Miller urged the Philippines “to resolve politically motivated cases, including those against journalists and civil society, in a manner consistent with its international human rights obligations and commitments.”
De Lima was detained since her arrest in February 2017 on drug-related charges under the Duterte administration. Her politically motivated arrest has drawn criticism from foreign countries and international organizations.
Rachel Chhoa-Howard of Amnesty International said in 2023, “The Marcos administration must ensure the immediate and unconditional release of de Lima and drop all charges against her. The authorities must also conduct a thorough, independent, transparent and effective investigation into the attacks against her. Those responsible for violations of her rights since her arrest, including her arbitrary detention, must be brought to justice in fair trial.”
