ICC Chief Prosecutor Temporarily Steps Down Amid Sexual Misconduct Investigation

The chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), Karim Khan, has stepped down temporarily as a sexual misconduct probe against him is underway. This decision, announced by the ICC, has emerged amidst persistent scrutiny of the organization and is seen as a measure to uphold the integrity of its processes during investigations.

Karim Khan, the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), has announced he will take a leave of absence until an external investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct against him is complete. The decision follows accusations that have surfaced since late last year, including claims of unwanted sexual touching and other forms of "abuse."

Though Mr. Khan has consistently denied these allegations, the circumstances have led to significant pressure from various ICC staff members and organizations advocating for his resignation during the ongoing investigation. The inquiry, being overseen by the United Nations Office of Internal Oversight Services, is reported to be nearing its final stages, with Mr. Khan recently meeting with investigators for a concluding interview.

In a letter addressed to his staff, Mr. Khan expressed that his temporary leave reflects his commitment to maintaining the credibility of the ICC and safeguarding the fairness of the investigative process. He noted that his role within the organization has been under "constant review" since the allegations were made public.

Initially, Mr. Khan had requested an internal investigation through the ICC's Independent Oversight Mechanism (IOM), but the court's governing body opted for an external approach to ensure impartiality and independence. The current investigation has unfolded under the shadow of scrutiny surrounding the ICC, especially following Khan's recent requests for arrest warrants related to the Israel-Hamas conflict, including allegations of war crimes against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

The ICC, which has faced sanctions from former U.S. President Donald Trump, continues to advocate for justice and human rights while calling upon its member states to support the court against pressures that seem to undermine its operations. With the investigation still ongoing, the outcome may have significant implications for both Khan and the ICC itself.