The Coalition Against Trafficking in Women‑Asia Pacific (CATW‑AP) said it was not surprised by the withdrawal of Atty. Nicholas Kaufman as lead counsel for former President Rodrigo Duterte.
Founding convenor Jean Enriquez described the move as a development in the ongoing International Criminal Court (ICC) investigation into extrajudicial killings.
She noted that the withdrawal reflects difficulties within Duterte’s camp in mounting a strong legal defense. Enriquez added that earlier arguments from the defense were seen as weak and problematic, particularly in handling witness names and compliance with court rules.
For victims of EJK, she said, this is viewed as a positive step in their pursuit of justice.
The group now awaits the appointment of a new counsel, whose credibility and capability they plan to scrutinize closely.
