Manila: Former president Rodrigo Duterte has decided to replace his lead counsel Nicholas Kaufman ahead of his trial before the International Criminal Court (ICC), the latter confirmed on Friday night. In a court document dated May 8, Kaufman formally notified the ICC Trial Chamber III of his withdrawal as Duterte's counsel. He had been representing the former chief executive for a term that was scheduled to end on March 31, 2026.

According to Philippines News Agency, Kaufman reported that the defense team visited Duterte on May 7, during which the former president communicated his decision to appoint another lead counsel. The name of the new lead counsel was redacted in the court document. Kaufman noted that he has spoken to the incoming lawyer, who has confirmed readiness and willingness to assume immediate representation, with agreed terms of engagement.

Kaufman expressed confidence that Duterte's representation would remain effective with the new counsel, who possesses extensive experience at the International Criminal Court, alongside the existing defense team. In a separate court document on May 8, the ICC Trial Chamber III granted Dov Jacobs' request to withdraw as Duterte's associate counsel.

The ICC disclosed that Duterte is reorganizing his defense team in preparation for his trial. An ICC pre-trial chamber confirmed all charges against Duterte on April 23, committing him to a full trial. The pre-trial judges concluded there are substantial grounds to believe Duterte was criminally responsible for three counts of crimes against humanity. These charges were brought by the ICC prosecutor, alleging that they were part of a widespread and systematic attack against a civilian population in the Philippines between Nov. 1, 2011, and March 16, 2019, during the 'war on drugs' campaign.