ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan Takes Leave Amid Sexual Misconduct Investigation
Karim Khan, the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), has announced that he will take a leave of absence pending the outcome of an investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct against him. This decision, confirmed by the ICC, comes after mounting pressure from his staff and new details related to the allegations surfaced in media reports.
On Friday, staff within the ICC's prosecution division were informed of Khan's temporary departure, which will last until the completion of the external investigation. The Hague-based court stated that Khan informed them of his intent to step aside, allowing deputy prosecutors to manage the office's responsibilities during his absence.
In a communication sent to staff and seen by The Guardian, Khan explained, "In light of escalating media reports, I have made the considered decision to take leave until the completion of the investigation." This move follows intensified calls from senior court officials earlier in the week, urging him to step back as new allegations became public.
The investigation into Khan's conduct began in November and has been conducted by the United Nations' watchdog, the Office of Internal Oversight Services (OIOS). Khan's alleged misconduct reportedly includes unwanted sexual touching, coercive behaviour, and the abuse of authority, alongside claims of witness intimidation and retaliation against court staff.
During the investigation process, which is expected to last several months, Khan has cooperated with investigators, who reportedly interviewed him for two days last week. Despite the allegations, Khan’s legal representatives have vehemently denied the claims and reiterated his commitment to cooperate fully with the inquiry.
Elected in 2021, Khan holds a nine-year term leading the ICC, the permanent court responsible for investigating and prosecuting individuals accused of serious international crimes, including genocide and war crimes. As the investigation unfolds, the ICC is poised to take appropriate action based on its findings, impacting not only Khan's career but the court's operations as a whole.
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