British-Israeli lawyer Nicholas Kaufman on Saturday thanked former president Rodrigo Duterte and his supporters as the International Criminal Court considers his request to withdraw from the former leader’s defense team in the crimes against humanity case linked to the Philippines’ war on drugs.
In a statement sent to reporters, Kaufman described his stint as Duterte’s lead counsel as a “privilege” and expressed appreciation for the support he received while representing the former president before the ICC.
“It has been a privilege for me to represent the former President,” Kaufman said.
“I thank both him and the many thousands of supporters who have shown their appreciation for my efforts on his behalf,” he added.
Kaufman also sought to reassure Duterte’s supporters that the former president’s legal defense would remain intact should the ICC approve his withdrawal.
“If my withdrawal is approved, I am convinced that I will be leaving Tatay Digong in safe hands,” he said.
“May God bless the former President, the Duterte family, and the Filipino nation. Daghang salamat!” he added.
The remarks came a day after Kaufman formally filed a request before Trial Chamber III seeking permission to step down as Duterte’s lead counsel ahead of the trial phase of the case.
