A Shift in the Defense: Nicholas Kaufman Withdraws from Duterte’s ICC Team
THE HAGUE, Netherlands — A significant change is unfolding in the ongoing legal battle for former President Rodrigo Duterte. British-Israeli lawyer Nicholas Kaufman, who has been at the forefront of Duterte’s defense in the International Criminal Court (ICC), has decided to withdraw as lead counsel. This shift represents a pivotal moment in the case concerning crimes against humanity related to Duterte’s controversial war on drugs.
In an exclusive interview with GMA News, Kaufman shared some insights about this transition. He confirmed that Duterte was scheduled to meet with the new lawyer who will take over his defense. “Today, the former president will make his acquaintance with the selected counsel,” Kaufman stated, building tension around what this change might mean for the case.
Kaufman clarified the terms of his engagement: “I was brought in for a specific role — the pretrial proceedings for one year, or until the confirmation hearing concluded, whichever came first.” This contract is set to end on March 31, 2026.
With his departure, Kaufman indicated that the responsibility for the ongoing legal matters now rests with Honeylet Avanceña and her daughter, Veronica. He emphasized this important transition, stating, “The funding and choice of counsel now lie with them.”
Now, all eyes are on Duterte. Kaufman believes that if the former president approves his new defense attorney, it could facilitate his withdrawal from the case as soon as the next week. “If Mr. Duterte gives the green light to the Registry staff on Monday morning, I anticipate a swift decision from the judges to accept my withdrawal,” he explained, feeling a blend of hope and urgency.
As for the new counsel, Kaufman appeared optimistic. He described the incoming lawyer as someone well-versed in ICC cases and experienced with high-profile clients. “This new counsel has a wealth of experience at the ICC, and like myself, has represented prestigious clients,” he shared. Kaufman added that he is committed to assisting in the transition, aiming for “efficiency and continuity” as the defense team reconfigures.
An ICC spokesperson, Oriane Maillet, echoed the importance of this process, noting that the court is still carefully reviewing Kaufman’s withdrawal request. “The judges will make their decision in due course,” Maillet confirmed, emphasizing that Duterte still retains the right to legal representation from someone accredited by the court. “He is entitled to be defended by a counsel eligible to practice before the ICC,” she noted, ensuring that due process remains a priority.
This development comes on the heels of ICC judges confirming the charges against Duterte just weeks ago, clearing the path for the trial proceedings to commence. Kaufman had served as the lead defense attorney during the confirmation hearings in February, where he challenged the ICC’s jurisdiction and deemed the case politically motivated.
As the legal landscape shifts, the upcoming meetings and decisions will surely have implications not just for Duterte, but for the broader conversation surrounding justice and accountability in international law. With emotions running high and stakes elevated, the journey ahead remains uncertain but undoubtedly critical. Stay tuned as this story unfolds.
