The International Criminal Court (ICC) has announced that Peter Haynes, former president of the ICC Bar Association, will take over as the lead counsel for former President Rodrigo Duterte in his crimes against humanity case.
Haynes replaces Nicholaas Kaufman, whose request to withdraw from the representation was granted by Trial Chamber III.
According to a three-page filing dated May 8, the transition was initiated following a personal visit to the former president.
“Yesterday, the Defence team visited Mr. Duterte and documented both Mr. Duterte’s release of Counsel from his representation and his desire to hire replacement Counsel – Mr. Peter Haynes.”
Kaufman assured the court that the transition would be seamless, noting that Haynes is already prepared to meet upcoming judicial obligations, including a status conference scheduled for May 27.
“Counsel has spoken to Mr. Haynes, who has indeed confirmed that he is ready, willing, and able to assume immediate representation and that his terms of engagement have been agreed.”
In his final statements regarding the handover, Kaufman expressed full confidence in his successor’s ability to handle the high-profile case, citing Haynes’ extensive history within the international legal system.
“I am convinced that the continuity and efficacy of Mr Duterte’s representation will remain assured through Mr Haynes, who has a wealth of experience at the International Criminal Court, and the existing defence team. Counsel thanks Mr Haynes for his extremely graceful, supportive and collegial approach.”