Lawyer Nicholas Kaufman expressed gratitude and optimism as he formally requested to withdraw as counsel for former president Rodrigo Duterte in the crimes against humanity case before the International Criminal Court.
In a statement released following the request, Kaufman reflected on his time representing Duterte, describing it as both an honor and a privilege.
“It has been a privilege for me to represent the former president. I thank both him and the many thousands of supporters who have shown their appreciation for my efforts on his behalf,” Kaufman said.
Despite his possible departure, Kaufman expressed confidence in the legal team that would continue handling Duterte’s defense before the ICC.
“If my withdrawal is approved, I am convinced that I will be leaving Tatay Digong in safe hands,” he added.
Kaufman also extended his well wishes to Duterte, his family, and the Filipino people as he concluded his message.
“May God bless the former President, the Duterte family and the Filipino nation. Daghang Salamat!” he said.
Kaufman further clarified that his engagement was limited to the confirmation proceedings in the cases against Duterte. In his withdrawal request, he stated that his contract with the former president was valid for only one year and had already expired on March 31.
The request remains subject to the approval of ICC Trial Chamber III, which is handling Duterte’s three counts of crimes against humanity.
Meanwhile, Vice President Sara Duterte said the former president is doing well as she relayed his message to supporters gathered at Duterte Street in The Hague, Netherlands, and to Filipinos around the world praying for his freedom.
Speaking to supporters, the vice president shared that her father considers his situation a sacrifice and does not want his supporters to endure hardship outside.
“At sabi niya na ‘yung nandoon siya sa loob, ‘yun ay sakripisyo na daw. So, hindi daw ninyo kailangan na magsakripisyo dito sa labas sa Duterte Street,” Duterte said.
She added that the former president instead urged supporters to continue praying for the country and for President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.
“Ang gawin n’yo daw ay magdasal para sa bayan at para kay Bongbong Marcos,” she said.
Duterte also shared a lighter moment during their conversation when the former president asked whether supporters were still staying outside despite the heat.
“Sabi niya, sabihin mo sa kanila, huwag sila magpainit,” she added.
The vice president then joked about how Filipinos abroad seemed more comfortable under the sun compared to those in the Philippines.
“At sinabi ko na, gusto n’yo ‘yung init. Unlike sa Pilipinas na nagtatago tayo pag nandyan na ‘yung init,” Duterte said.
