ICC Trial Chamber grants Kaufman withdrawal as Duterte lawyer

The International Criminal Court (ICC) Trial Chamber III on Monday granted lawyer Nicholas Kaufman’s withdrawal as former President Rodrigo Duterte’s counsel in his crimes against humanity case.

“Having considered the present stage of the proceedings and the aforementioned factors, the Chamber is of the view that no prejudice arises or inconvenience is caused by accepting Mr. Kaufman’s withdrawal," the Chamber said in a 5-page document.

According to the Trial Chamber, Kaufman made his request to withdraw on May 8, indicating that Duterte expressed a desire to release him from his representation and hire another counsel to replace him.

“The request notes that Mr. Kaufman has spoken to his replacement counsel, who has confirmed that he is willing and able to assume immediate representation of the Accused and that his terms of engagement have been agreed,” it said.

“Additionally, the request also states that Mr. Kaufman has informed his replacement counsel of pending deadlines and that his replacement counsel has provided assurances that he will be able to attend this case’s next status conference, which is set for 27 May,” it added.

The name of the new counsel was redacted from the public version of the request.

The Trial Chamber, meanwhile, reminded Kaufman of his continuing obligations under the Code of Professional Conduct and any confidentiality obligations.

The decision was signed by Presiding Judge Joanna Korner, Judge Keebong Paek, and Judge Nicolas Guillou.

Duterte is currently under ICC custody in relation to crimes against humanity charges over alleged killings during his time as Davao mayor and as president. —LDF, GMA News