British-Israeli lawyer Nicholas Kaufman has officially joined the defense team of former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte in his case before the International Criminal Court (ICC), expressing strong confidence in securing an acquittal.
Kaufman, who was formally appointed as Duterte’s legal counsel, said in a GMA News Online report he believes in mounting the “strongest defense” and is optimistic about the former president’s chances of being cleared at the earliest stage of proceedings.
“I’m very confident about the strongest defense, and I’m very confident [Duterte would] be acquitted indeed, even at the earliest stage,” Kaufman said in an interview with GMA News Online report after meeting Duterte.
While details on other lawyers joining the defense team remain undisclosed, Kaufman stated that assembling the team would be done in full consultation with Duterte and his advisers.
When asked about possible legal maneuvers before the ICC’s confirmation of charges hearing on September 23, Kaufman confirmed that “there will be petitions” but declined to elaborate on the defense strategy.
Meanwhile, former Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, who was also in The Hague, was taken to a hospital shortly before Kaufman left the penitentiary where Duterte is being held. The Philippine Embassy confirmed Medialdea is receiving medical treatment, though no further details were provided.
Despite the ongoing legal battle, Kaufman assured that Duterte remains in “good spirits” and is being well cared for. He also committed to visiting the former president daily while he is in The Hague.
