International Criminal Court prosecutor Karim Khan has been suspended following allegations of sexual misconduct. The decision, made by a core group of member states, now goes to the full Assembly, potentially prolonging damaging wrangling and impacting landmark investigations.
The suspension of the ICC's lead prosecutor amid sexual misconduct allegations and external political pressures could undermine the court's credibility and its ability to pursue international justice, particularly in high-stakes investigations.
International Criminal Court (ICC) lead prosecutor Karim Khan has been suspended following allegations of sexual misconduct, potentially leading to months of damaging internal disputes and impacting the court's high-profile investigations. The suspension, voted on by a core group of 21 member states, now moves to the full Assembly of States Parties for a final decision on Khan's dismissal, which requires 63 votes.
A confidential 18-month UN investigation found a factual basis for allegations made by a female aide that Khan had a non-consensual sexual relationship with a staff member. However, a subsequent legal review by external judges concluded the evidence was insufficient to prove the claims beyond a reasonable doubt.
Despite the review, 14 member states voted to suspend Khan, citing "serious misconduct" and "serious breach of duty." Four African nations supported his acquittal, while others abstained. Khan maintains he is being wronged and attacked for political reasons, with his legal team vowing to challenge the decision.
The controversy comes as the ICC faces external pressures, including U.S. sanctions on judges and prosecutors for issuing arrest warrants against Israeli officials and for a past probe into U.S. troops in Afghanistan. Khan's suspension raises concerns among some member states that landmark investigations, particularly those concerning alleged crimes in Gaza, could falter without his leadership.