Karim Khan, the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (I.C.C.), has been suspended as member states of the court deliberate on disciplinary measures against him. This development continues the turmoil that has affected the I.C.C. over the past two years.
The Bureau of the Assembly of States Parties, an oversight body comprising 21 members, disclosed on Monday night that a decision regarding allegations of sexual misconduct against Khan had been made. However, the specifics and documentation of this decision remain confidential. The matter has been escalated to the full assembly for further disciplinary action.
A source familiar with the situation indicated that a majority of bureau members concluded that Khan, who was voluntarily on leave, committed serious misconduct. While this decision is significant, Khan’s future at the I.C.C. is still uncertain. The court’s rules state that the chief prosecutor can only be removed if a majority of the full Assembly of States Parties confirms serious misconduct and votes for removal.
According to Reuters, Khan’s legal representatives have denied any wrongdoing, labeling the decision as unlawful, procedurally unjust, and lacking evidence.
The I.C.C.’s procedural regulations allow for suspending a chief prosecutor if the allegation is “of a sufficiently serious nature,” pending a final disciplinary outcome. The bureau clarified that Khan’s suspension does not imply the final result of the disciplinary proceedings.