ICC chief prosecutor removed amid sexual misconduct allegations

Karim Khan, the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), has publicly denied allegations that he engaged in an improper sexual relationship with a junior ICC staff member and subsequently attempted to prevent her from pursuing a formal complaint. The accusations were first reported by the staff member, who claimed the relationship was consensual but that Khan used his position to intimidate her into withdrawing her grievance. Khan issued a statement through his office asserting that no such relationship existed and that he has fully complied with the ICC’s internal conduct policies, emphasizing his commitment to upholding the highest standards of professional integrity.

The ICC’s Office of the Prosecutor has indicated that the matter will be examined in accordance with its internal investigative procedures, which include an independent review by the Office of Internal Oversight Services. No formal disciplinary action has been announced, and the prosecutor’s office has not disclosed the identity of the staff member involved. The investigation’s outcome will determine whether any breach of the ICC’s staff conduct rules occurred, while the institution continues to reaffirm its dedication to a safe and respectful workplace.