Kaufman to step down as lead defense lawyer of Rodrigo Duterte in ICC

MANILA, Philippines — Nicholas Kaufman has decided to step down as the head of the legal team of former President Rodrigo Duterte in his crimes against humanity case in the International Criminal Court (ICC).

But before he could formally leave the defense team, Kaufman would have to get the approval of the Trial Chamber (TC) III, which is handling Duterte’s case.

In the public redacted version of his request to withdraw on May 8, Kaufman said he has spoken with Duterte, who told him of his plan to hire another counsel. The name of the new lawyer who will lead the restructured defense team was redacted in the filing, but he was referred to as a “he.”

READ: Kaufman criticizes victims’ counsel, media in closing remarks

“Counsel has spoken to [REDACTED] who has indeed confirmed that he is ready, willing and able to assume immediate representation and that his terms of engagement have been agreed,” read part of Kaufman’s three-page withdrawal request. 

Kaufman vouched for his replacement, saying: “I am convinced that the continuity and efficacy of Mr Duterte’s representation will remain assured through [REDACTED], who has a wealth of experience at the International Criminal Court, and the existing defence team. Counsel thanks [REDACTED] for his extremely graceful, supportive and collegial approach.”

The British-Israeli lawyer noted that he briefed the unnamed new counsel, who assured him that he would be able to prepare and attend the status conference slated on May 27.

The status conference marks the formal start of the proceedings at the trial stage as parties were asked to submit documents and materials, including evidence that will be used during trial proper. /mr