ICC judges urged to replace second neuropsychologist for Duterte exam

Both the defense and the prosecution are urging pre-trial judges of the International Criminal Court (ICC) to replace the second neuropsychologist tapped to examine former President Rodrigo Duterte's fitness to stand trial.

The defense sought the disqualification of the unidentified psychologist over alleged "offensive" social media posts that supposedly "demonstrate this practitioner's manifest lack of professionalism."

Duterte's lead defense counsel, Nicholas Kaufman, stated that the language in the cited posts is considered "so offensive, inappropriate, disrespectful and unprofessional."

ICC Deputy Prosecutor Mame Mandiaye Niang agreed with the defense, saying the expert's appointment should be revoked, pending verification of his social media activity.

This situation follows a similar motion last month to remove another expert facing suspension for alleged professional misconduct.

The ICC Registry has been urged to revise its working methods to ensure suitable candidates are selected.