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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Kaufman seeks withdrawal as Duterte counsel ahead of ICC trial phase

Kaufman seeks withdrawal as Duterte counsel ahead of ICC trial phase

Published May 8, 2026 11:49 pm
Lawyer Nicholas Kaufman (ICC)
Lawyer Nicholas Kaufman (ICC)

LAPU-LAPU CITY, Cebu —  Former president Rodrigo Duterte’s lead counsel at the International Criminal Court (ICC), Nicholas Kaufman, has formally requested permission to withdraw from the former leader’s legal team as the case moves closer to trial.

In a filing dated May 8, Kaufman said his engagement as Duterte’s counsel “terminated on 31 March 2026.”

“Yesterday, the Defence team visited Mr. Duterte and documented both Mr. Duterte’s release of Counsel from his representation and his desire to hire replacement Counsel,” the filing stated.

Kaufman said a replacement lawyer, whose identity was redacted in the public document, had already agreed to immediately assume representation and attend the status conference scheduled on May 27.

Duterte camp reorganizing legal team

The filing also indicated that Duterte wanted to reorganize his defense team in anticipation of the trial phase of the crimes against humanity case stemming from his administration’s war on drugs.

Kaufman said he was convinced Duterte’s legal representation would continue uninterrupted through the replacement counsel and the existing defense team.

“I am convinced that the continuity and efficacy of Mr Duterte’s representation will remain assured,” he said.

Kaufman likewise committed to complying with confidentiality and record-keeping obligations under the ICC Code of Professional Conduct, even if his withdrawal is granted.

ICC chamber allows associate counsel withdrawal

In a separate decision also dated May 8, ICC Trial Chamber III granted the withdrawal request of associate counsel Dov Jacobs from Duterte’s legal team.

The chamber noted that Duterte had expressed interest in reorganizing his defense team ahead of trial proceedings.

“The Request indicates that the Accused has expressed an interest in reorganising his Defence team in anticipation for the trial phase of this case,” the chamber said.

The ICC said Jacobs’ withdrawal would not prejudice Duterte’s representation since lead counsel and the rest of the defense team remain in place.

“Lead Counsel continues to represent the Accused,” the chamber said.

The developments come weeks after ICC judges confirmed charges of crimes against humanity against Duterte in connection with alleged killings linked to his anti-drug campaign.

The case has now entered preparations for trial proceedings, with the next status conference set later this month.

Related Tags

ICC President Duterte Rodrigo Duterte Nicholas Kaufman crimes against humanity
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