Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte is expected to receive a new legal representative at the International Criminal Court (ICC) after his British-Israeli lawyer Nicholas Kaufman announced his withdrawal as defense counsel in the case against the former Philippine leader.
Kaufman's Statement
In a statement, Kaufman explained that his association with Duterte was limited to the pretrial stage under a specific contract. "I was hired on a specific contract for the pretrial phase for the period of one year, or the conclusion of the confirmation hearing whichever the sooner," Kaufman said.
He clarified that responsibility for Duterte's ongoing legal matters, including selecting and recommending a lawyer, has been transferred to Duterte's partner Honeylet Avanceña and their daughter Veronica Duterte.
Meeting with New Counsel
According to Kaufman, Duterte is scheduled to meet with the selected lawyer who will replace him in the defense team. "The former President will meet the counsel who has been selected for him today to make his acquaintance," he said.
Kaufman added that if Duterte formally approves the appointment before ICC Registry staff on Monday morning, the ICC Trial Chamber judges are expected to approve his withdrawal on the same day or in the following days.
Experience of New Counsel
Although Kaufman did not name the successor, he described the replacement as highly experienced in ICC litigation and accustomed to handling high-profile cases worldwide. "The new counsel has a wealth of experience at the ICC and, like me, has represented high profile clients," Kaufman noted.
He also assured the continuity of Duterte's legal defense and said he is ready to assist in the transition process. "I have of course informed him that I will provide him with any assistance that he should require when taking over. That is my duty and, given that I know the new counsel well, it will be highly efficient," he added.
Critical Stage of ICC Proceedings
Kaufman's withdrawal comes at a critical stage of ICC proceedings against Duterte, after the ICC Pre-Trial Chamber I confirmed all three charges against the former president on April 23, 2026.
