Duterte Re-Elected as Davao Mayor Despite Imprisonment in The Hague

Strategic Insights -

Despite being arrested and flown to The Hague for alleged crimes against humanity, former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte has been re-elected as mayor of the city of Davao, his family's stronghold. With a significant lead of 405,000 votes, Duterte secured more than 60% of the returns, far ahead of his nearest competitor. This election comes amid a bitter power struggle between the Dutertes and their rivals, the family of president Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

Key Takeaways:

  • Rodrigo Duterte, 80, was re-elected as mayor of Davao with an insurmountable lead of 405,000 votes.
  • Duterte's arrest in March over his "war on drugs" which led to thousands of deaths, did not deter his popularity.
  • Campaigns by his supporters focused on calls for his return to the Philippines, and tens of thousands gathered in his birthday celebration in March.
  • Duterte's daughter, impeached vice-president Sara Duterte, said discussions were underway to determine who would take over as mayor, given her father's imprisonment in the Netherlands.
  • Sara Duterte did not appear on the ballot papers but her election will be crucial to her survival as she faces trial over misused funds and threatening the lives of government officials.
  • The Dutertes have accused the state of "kidnapping" Rodrigo Duterte.

Statistics:

  • Rodrigo Duterte secured 60%+ of the returns in the election.
  • Duterte's lead was 405,000 votes, far ahead of his nearest competitor who trailed on 49,000.
  • Tens of thousands gathered in Davao on Rodrigo Duterte's 80th birthday in March.

Sources:

  • Local media, citing unofficial results from the election commission.