MANILA, Philippines — Lead defense counsel Nicholas Kaufman urged the International Criminal Court (ICC) not to confirm charges against former President Rodrigo Duterte, arguing that the prosecution manipulated evidence while portraying Duterte as a frail, resigned 80-year-old.
Kaufman told the Pre-Trial Chamber that the prosecution selectively released evidence to shape public perception and limit the defense’s ability to address substantive issues in open court. He said this approach prevented the public from fully understanding the weaknesses of the case.
The defense lawyer described Duterte as detached from the proceedings, noting that when asked about the evidence, the former president repeatedly questioned how the prosecution claimed he committed crimes. Kaufman said Duterte’s final instructions were to allow his legal team to act on his behalf, acknowledging that he no longer remembers much of the case.
Kaufman also highlighted Duterte’s reflections on his legacy, stating that the former president said he had served the people faithfully and had accepted the possibility of dying in prison. The lawyer described moments when Duterte responded positively to mentions of his family and public tributes, including greetings and flowers sent by supporters.
In his closing statement, Kaufman asked the judges to rely on evidence and common sense and to allow Duterte to return to the Philippines to live out his remaining years in Davao.
The Pre-Trial Chamber is expected to decide within 60 days whether to confirm the charges and proceed to trial.