The International Criminal Court (ICC) Trial Chamber III has approved the withdrawal of Atty. Nicholas Kaufman as legal counsel for former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, as the case progresses toward the trial stage following the confirmation of charges.

The ICC case, The Prosecutor v. Rodrigo Roa Duterte, stems from allegations of crimes against humanity linked to the government’s anti-drug campaign during his presidency. The ICC Pre-Trial Chamber previously confirmed the case to proceed to trial, finding sufficient grounds to move forward based on submitted evidence and arguments.

In its decision issued under Regulation 78(1) of the Court’s Rules, Trial Chamber III granted Kaufman’s request to withdraw after informing the Court that Duterte had opted to reorganize his legal representation ahead of trial proceedings.

The Chamber noted that the former president expressed his intention to appoint new counsel, who has already agreed to assume immediate representation and is prepared for upcoming proceedings, including the next status conference scheduled for May 27 2026.

Court records show that the transition in legal counsel was initiated by the accused and agreed upon by the incoming lawyer, with assurances that there would be no disruption to the proceedings. The Chamber found no prejudice in allowing the withdrawal at this stage of the case.

The ICC also reiterated that outgoing counsel remains bound by professional and confidentiality obligations under the Rome Statute and Rules of Procedure and Evidence.

With the case now entering its pre-trial-to-trial transition phase, the proceedings are expected to focus on the presentation and examination of evidence following the earlier confirmation of charges against Duterte.