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THE HAGUE — The governing body of the International Criminal Court (ICC) has formally suspended Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan with immediate effect following an extensive investigation into allegations of serious sexual misconduct.
The decision was finalized after a qualified majority vote by the 21-member Bureau of the Assembly of States Parties (ASP).
UN Probe Finds Evidence of Misconduct
The suspension follows an 18-month investigation conducted by the United Nations Office of Internal Oversight Services (OIOS). According to the bureau’s statement, the UN probe established a factual basis supporting allegations that Khan engaged in non-consensual sexual contact with a female lawyer in his office.
- The report detailed incidents occurring:
- Within the ICC headquarters
- At Khan’s private residence
- During official international travel missions
An ad hoc panel of three separate judicial experts reviewed the OIOS findings. The panel noted that while the evidence strongly supported disciplinary action, it did not conclusively prove guilt “beyond a reasonable doubt” under strict criminal standards. However, the Bureau determined the findings sufficient to rule that serious misconduct occurred, prompting the recommendation for his permanent removal.
Defense Denounces “Unlawful” Decision
Khan and his legal team have fiercely rejected the Bureau’s decision. In a statement released shortly after the announcement, his lawyers labeled the suspension “unlawful, procedurally unfair, and unsupported by evidence.”
Khan has consistently maintained his innocence, previously suggesting the allegations were part of a coordinated smear campaign designed to target his credibility and disrupt high-profile international investigations.
What Happens Next?
The Bureau’s recommendation for permanent removal must now be ratified by the wider Assembly of States Parties, which represents all 125 member nations of the ICC.
The Vote: A special legislative session will be convened as soon as possible.
The Threshold: Permanent removal requires a secret ballot victory, needing a simple majority of at least 63 member states.
Immediate Court Impact: The suspension is unlikely to disrupt daily ICC operations. Khan had already been on a voluntary leave of absence since May 2025. Deputy prosecutors will continue to lead active cases.
Khan had already been legally disqualified by the ICC appeals chamber from participating in major active files, including the crimes against humanity investigation into former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte.
