ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan Suspended Over Misconduct Findings

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The Hague : The International Criminal Court's chief prosecutor, Karim Khan, has been suspended after the court's governing body referred disciplinary proceedings against him to member states following findings of serious misconduct linked to sexual abuse allegations.

The decision was announced after the ICC's executive committee voted to send the matter to a special session of the court's 125 member states, which could ultimately decide whether Khan should be removed from office. According to reports, the committee determined by a qualified majority that Khan had committed serious misconduct in connection with the allegations.

The claims, brought by a former staff member at the ICC's headquarters in The Hague, relate to alleged coercive and non-consensual sexual behaviour between 2023 and 2024. The alleged incidents are said to have occurred during work trips, in Khan's office and at his home.

Khan, a British lawyer who has led the ICC's prosecution division, has repeatedly denied the allegations. His legal team has said he ‘categorically denies’ engaging in harassment, coercion, or any inappropriate conduct, and maintains that he did not misuse his position or authority.

The ICC's governing body said Khan's suspension should not be interpreted as a final determination of the case. The move follows recommendations based on a United Nations watchdog report, expert legal advice and submissions from both Khan and the complainant.

The unprecedented proceedings have placed the court under intense scrutiny and could lead to a vote by member states on Khan's future as prosecutor.

Pic Credit: AFP