The chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), Karim Khan, has temporarily stepped down from his position while a United Nations investigation into alleged inappropriate sexual conduct concludes.
This decision, unprecedented in the history of the ICC, creates uncertainty about the court's leadership at an already critical time, marked by high-profile investigations and sanctions imposed by the United States.
Khan, a British lawyer with extensive experience in international courts, has vehemently denied the accusations. His office explained that he took leave due to media attention that prevents him from focusing on his duties, although he clarified that he hasn't resigned nor plans to do so. His legal team, the Carter-Ruck law firm, reiterated that Khan remains the chief prosecutor and keeps his commitment to the ICC.
In a letter to his team, Khan explained that his decision reflects his "deep and unwavering commitment to the Court's credibility" and seeks to safeguard the integrity of the investigative process.
The UN's Office of Internal Oversight Services initiated the investigation in November 2023 after receiving allegations from an assistant who claimed to have been sexually assaulted by Khan in December of the same year.
According to The Wall Street Journal, the woman, in her 30s, stated that Khan touched her inappropriately and later forced her to have sexual relations.
Khan had previously rejected requests from NGOs and ICC employees to step aside during the investigation. However, several human rights groups welcomed his current decision as a crucial step to preserve public trust in the court.
"No one is above the law," stated Danya Chaikel of the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH). Alix Vuillemin, from Women's Initiatives for Gender Justice, added that Khan's temporary departure could strengthen the professionalism of the prosecutor's office, especially if it involves eradicating a "toxic work culture."
