ICC Chief Prosecutor Suspended Amid Sexual Misconduct Allegations

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has suspended its chief prosecutor, British barrister Karim Khan, following allegations of sexual misconduct. This situation arose after the court’s oversight body initiated disciplinary proceedings against him.

The accusations against the 56-year-old Khan involve inappropriate conduct with a female aide. These allegations, which have persisted for over two years, have been firmly denied by Khan. The case is now in the hands of the Assembly of States Parties, responsible for overseeing the ICC. A special session will determine whether Khan can continue in his role.

The Bureau of the Assembly of States Parties, acting as the court’s executive committee, based its suspension decision on findings from the United Nations Office of Internal Oversight Services (OIOS). They reviewed evidence, a legal assessment by an ad hoc Panel of judicial experts, and written submissions. The suspension is not an indication of Khan’s final status.

The U.N. investigation found evidence of ‘nonconsensual sexual contact with (the aide) in his office, at his private residence, and whilst on mission,’ according to a report accessed by The Associated Press.

Despite the seriousness of these claims, a panel of three judges deemed the investigation’s findings inconclusive. Khan’s legal team has announced plans to release a statement on Tuesday. Khan had stepped down temporarily in May 2025, pending the investigation.

This situation is unprecedented for the ICC, prompting the Assembly of States Parties to create new rules to manage it. The allegations first reached the court’s watchdog over two years ago. According to an investigation by the Associated Press, Khan allegedly saw the woman in another department and moved her into his office. She became a regular on official trips, where several instances of misconduct reportedly occurred.

The ICC’s jurisdiction allows only the Assembly of States Parties to remove Khan. This would require a majority vote by its 125 member states, meaning 63 votes are necessary. Although no date is set, the assembly intends to convene as soon as possible.