British-Israeli lawyer Nicholas Kaufman has formally asked to withdraw as lead counsel of former President Rodrigo Duterte in his crimes against humanity case before the International Criminal Court.
In a public redacted filing dated May 8, Kaufman informed ICC Trial Chamber III that Duterte plans to appoint a new lawyer to lead a restructured defense team.
Before the withdrawal can take effect, however, the ICC chamber handling Duterte’s case must first approve Kaufman’s request.
Kaufman said he had already spoken with Duterte regarding the transition and confirmed that a replacement lawyer is prepared to immediately assume representation.
“Counsel has spoken to [REDACTED] who has indeed confirmed that he is ready, willing and able to assume immediate representation,” the filing stated.
The identity of the incoming lawyer was redacted in the document, although Kaufman referred to the new counsel as “he.”
Kaufman also vouched for the incoming lawyer, saying the new counsel has “a wealth of experience at the International Criminal Court.”
He added that he had already briefed Duterte’s incoming lead lawyer regarding the case and preparations for the upcoming May 27 status conference.
The conference is expected to formally mark the start of trial-stage proceedings, including discussions involving evidence, filings, and procedural matters related to the crimes against humanity case against Duterte.
Kaufman previously served as Duterte’s lead defense counsel during key proceedings before the ICC, including legal arguments involving jurisdiction and pre-trial matters connected to the former president’s controversial anti-drug campaign.
As of posting time, the ICC has yet to issue a ruling on Kaufman’s withdrawal request.
