Nicholas Kaufman has asked the International Criminal Court (ICC) to approve his withdrawal as legal counsel for former president Rodrigo Duterte as the crimes against humanity case moves toward the trial phase.
In a filing dated May 8, Kaufman said his engagement as Duterte’s lead counsel ended on March 31, 2026, and that the former president had expressed a desire to appoint new representation following a May 7 meeting.
He noted that a replacement lawyer, whose identity was redacted, has already agreed to take over and attend the upcoming May 27 status conference.
Kaufman said he is confident Duterte’s defense will remain effective under the new counsel and the existing legal team, while confirming he will still comply with ICC confidentiality obligations if his withdrawal is approved.
The ICC Trial Chamber III is still set to decide on the request as Duterte’s case, involving three counts of crimes against humanity linked to his anti-drug campaign, continues toward trial proceedings.
Source: PhilNews24 | May 9, 2026
NICHOLAS KAUFMAN WITHDRAWS AS ICC LAWYER FOR DUTERTE AHEAD OF TRIAL PHASE
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