By Street and Beyond Staff | May 2026
In a significant development in the high-profile International Criminal Court (ICC) case against former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, British-Israeli lawyer Nicholas Kaufman has requested to withdraw as lead defense counsel.
Background on Nicholas Kaufman and the Duterte ICC Case
Nicholas Kaufman, a veteran international criminal law expert with extensive experience at the ICC and the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY), was appointed as Duterte’s lead counsel following the former president’s extradition to The Hague in 2025.
Kaufman has represented high-profile clients in international tribunals, including former Congolese Vice President Jean-Pierre Bemba. His involvement brought significant expertise to Duterte’s defense team amid allegations of crimes against humanity related to the Philippines’ war on drugs.
Details of the Withdrawal
According to recent reports, Kaufman notified the ICC of his decision to step down from the defense team. This move comes after months of active involvement, including arguments on jurisdiction and representation issues.
The withdrawal is expected to prompt the ICC to consider new counsel arrangements for Duterte as the case progresses toward trial.
Implications for the Defense and the Case
- Potential delays in proceedings while new counsel is appointed and briefed.
- Shift in defense strategy depending on the incoming legal team’s approach.
- Continued focus on key issues such as jurisdiction and victim representation raised earlier by Kaufman’s team.
What’s Next for Rodrigo Duterte at the ICC?
The ICC Pre-Trial Chamber will likely address the withdrawal and ensure continuity of defense rights. Observers will closely monitor how this change affects the confirmation of charges and potential trial timeline.
Trusted Sources and Author Background
Nicholas Kaufman is a recognized figure in international criminal law:
- Nicholas Kaufman Wikipedia Profile (Background and career)
- Official ICC Website – Primary source for court filings and updates
- Rappler Coverage
- GMA News Report
This article is for informational purposes based on publicly available reports. Streetandbeyond.com maintains editorial independence.
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