ICC suspends chief prosecutor amid misconduct investigation
The International Criminal Court (ICC) has placed its chief prosecutor, Karim Khan, on immediate suspension while an investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct continues. The decision was taken by a group within the court’s management oversight body and was referred to the ICC’s 125 member states, which will vote on Khan’s future in a special session held “as soon as possible.”
Khan denied all allegations of sexual misconduct, with his lawyers describing the suspension as “unlawful, procedurally unfair and unsupported by evidence.” The allegations, which include unwanted sexual touching and abuse, stem from a 2024 report that a female staff member had filed a complaint. The Independent Oversight Mechanism opened an investigation, but it was closed after the alleged victim declined to participate.
A subsequent investigation by the United Nations Office of Internal Oversight Services collected more than 5,000 pages of evidence and testimony between late 2024 and late 2025. Findings were reviewed by a panel of judges who were to advise whether Khan’s conduct amounted to serious misconduct, lesser misconduct, or no misconduct.
The ICC’s internal process has drawn criticism for alleged mishandling, undermining confidence in the oversight mechanism. Critics warn that Khan’s return could damage confidence in the institution and raise concerns about retaliation. Supporters argue that the investigation failed to substantiate the allegations.
The controversy has coincided with broader political tensions. The United States imposed sanctions on Khan after he sought arrest warrants against Israeli leaders over alleged crimes linked to the Gaza conflict, a move that expanded to include deputies, judges, and Palestinian organisations connected to the court.
If the authority seeks Khan’s removal, he could challenge the decision before the International Labour Organization’s Administrative Tribunal, potentially leading to lengthy legal battles and compensation if procedural flaws are found.
