International Criminal Court member states vote to remove British barrister Karim Khan as chief prosecutor following serious sexual misconduct allegations

The International Criminal Court’s governing body voted to remove British barrister Karim Khan from his position as chief prosecutor on Friday. The decision follows a two-year investigation into allegations of serious misconduct and sexual abuse involving a female aide. Eighty-two of the court’s 125 member states voted in favor of the removal, marking the first time a chief prosecutor has been ousted from the global tribunal. The allegations, which include claims of non-consensual groping and kissing, were primarily raised by a female staffer who worked as Khan’s direct assistant. While Khan has steadfastly denied the claims, the oversight body concluded there was a factual basis for the misconduct. The removal comes as the court faces significant external pressure. The administration has imposed sanctions on several ICC staff members in retaliation for warrants issued against Israeli officials. Despite the leadership change, the court's existing arrest warrants for high-profile figures remain unaffected. The court must now appoint a new prosecutor to lead its prosecution division.

Sources