Changes in his legal counsel should not delay the proceedings against former President Rodrigo Duterte, International Criminal Court (ICC) Listed Counsel and Common Legal Representative of the Victims Gilbert Andres said Monday.

In a radio interview, Andres said the accused has the right to choose and change lawyers, as well as the right against undue delay.

“That’s why the presumption is that whoever changes their lawyer should be ready to fulfill their obligations. And that’s also the tenor of the file (erstwhile Duterte lawyer Nicolas) Kaufman submitted,” Andres said.

He said the victims’ legal team will continue to participate in the proceedings to protect the victims’ right to a speedy trial.

“To protect the victim’s right to expeditious proceedings, we will be attending the trial chamber this Friday, where filing for observations of the victims can be done. Second, the common legal representative of the victims will also attend the hearing on 27 May, which will also be shown to the public. And third, in every submission, in every oral manifestation, we’ll always tell the right and expedited proceedings of the victims,” he said.

Andres said detainees held by the ICC for one year are subject to periodic case reviews every 120 days and annually.

“Last Friday, the parties and participants submitted. They filed an observation of the victim. The most important change is the confirmation of the free trial chamber to all three counts of crimes against Mr. Duterte,” he said.

He added that Duterte should remain detained to ensure his appearance at trial, noting that attendance by the accused is required.

On Duterte’s request for temporary release, Andres said this forms part of the ICC’s review process, but noted that detention is being recommended following the confirmation of charges.