ICC advances disciplinary measures against Karim Khan over sexual assault claims
International Criminal Court (ICC) member states have voted to move forward with disciplinary proceedings against Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan after allegations of non‑consensual sexual interaction with a lawyer in his office. According to two unnamed sources cited by Reuters, a core group of states voted 15 in favor, four against and two abstaining. Khan, who leads investigations into war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide, has taken a leave of absence and denies any wrongdoing. A United Nations investigative report found a "factual basis" for allegations made by a female aide and said witness accounts supported her claims. However, a separate review by three ICC judges concluded that the evidence was insufficient to establish the truth of the allegations "beyond a reasonable doubt" and that the factual findings did not prove misconduct or breach of duty. A group of African states has argued the judges’ conclusions should end the process, while other member countries, including key backers of the court, voted to continue. Officials in the prosecutor’s office also opposed Khan’s continued service in a letter read during the meeting. The case has created a crisis for the ICC as it manages both the internal inquiry and external political pressure over its investigations and arrest warrants in other conflicts. The prosecutor’s office declined further public comment, citing the ongoing nature of the proceedings.
