A major change is unfolding in the legal camp of former president Rodrigo Duterte at the International Criminal Court (ICC), with lead defense lawyer Nicholas Kaufman formally seeking permission to withdraw from the case ahead of a critical phase in the proceedings.
In documents submitted to ICC Trial Chamber III, Kaufman disclosed that Duterte intends to appoint a new lead counsel to steer the defense team as the case moves closer to full trial preparations over allegations tied to the bloody anti-drug campaign during his presidency.
The request, dated May 8, remains subject to approval by ICC judges.
Kaufman said he had already coordinated with the incoming lawyer, whose identity was redacted in the public filing but was described as an experienced ICC practitioner ready to immediately assume responsibilities in the high-profile case.
According to the filing, the incoming counsel has accepted the engagement terms and has already been briefed on developments surrounding Duterte’s defense strategy.
“The continuity and efficacy” of the former president’s legal representation would remain intact, Kaufman said in the filing, expressing confidence in the transition process and the capabilities of the existing defense team.
The legal reshuffle comes just weeks before the May 27 status conference at The Hague, where parties are expected to discuss procedural matters, evidence disclosure, and preparations for the next stage of proceedings.
Legal observers view the upcoming conference as a significant milestone because it effectively signals the court’s transition toward the trial phase, where prosecutors and defense lawyers will begin intensifying arguments over evidence and witness testimonies.
Duterte is facing accusations of crimes against humanity stemming from his administration’s anti-illegal drugs campaign, which drew international scrutiny because of thousands of killings linked to police operations and vigilante-style attacks.
The former president has repeatedly denied wrongdoing and has consistently questioned the ICC’s jurisdiction over the Philippines.
Kaufman, a British-Israeli lawyer known for handling international criminal cases, had emerged as one of Duterte’s most vocal defenders before the tribunal. Throughout the proceedings, he frequently challenged the prosecution’s arguments and criticized media narratives and legal representatives of victims participating in the case.
Despite his planned withdrawal, Kaufman assured the court that the defense transition would not disrupt preparations for the upcoming hearings.
Trial Chamber III has yet to rule on the request.