Sexual misconduct allegations against the International Criminal Court’s top prosecutor remain under active investigation, according to an internal staff memo released Sunday, contradicting weekend media reports suggesting the official had been exonerated.
Karim Khan, the ICC’s Chief Prosecutor responsible for investigating war crimes, genocide, and crimes against humanity worldwide, has temporarily removed himself from his duties while the court examines accusations of an inappropriate sexual relationship with a female attorney in his department. Khan maintains his innocence regarding all allegations.
Following a comprehensive year-long inquiry, the United Nations Office of Internal Oversight Services delivered its confidential findings report last December to the ICC’s governing body, called the Bureau of the Assembly of States Parties.
The Middle East Eye published a story Saturday claiming Khan had been vindicated of all charges.
However, Assembly President Paivi Kaukoranta directly contradicted those reports in her staff communication, which Reuters obtained. “The disciplinary process before the Bureau is ongoing and remains confidential. No decisions have been taken, and no weight should be given to recent media speculation,” Kaukoranta stated.
Multiple requests for comment sent Sunday to the court, prosecutor’s office, Assembly leadership, and Khan’s legal representatives went unanswered, likely due to the weekend timing.
The misconduct probe has unfolded alongside unprecedented U.S. sanctions targeting Khan and fellow ICC officials over their investigation into alleged Israeli war crimes in Gaza, which resulted in arrest warrants for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
As the global tribunal of final appeal for international crimes, the ICC represents 125 member nations and faces what many consider an existential challenge due to the sanctions and the absence of its highest-profile leader.
Notable non-members include China, Russia, and the United States, all of which have criticized Khan’s decision to issue arrest warrants for current world leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and Netanyahu.
