ICC prosecutor to step aside until probe into alleged misconduct ends
The chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), Karim Khan, has taken a leave of absence pending the conclusion of UN-led investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct against him.
Khan's office said on Friday that he had informed colleagues he would step aside until the UN Office of Internal Oversight Services (OIOS) wraps up its probe. The OIOS has been conducting the external investigation since December, following complaints raised with the ICC's oversight body.
Khan has denied the allegations, which were first reported in October last year. The court said that he would remain on leave until the inquiry concludes, though a timeline for its completion remains unclear. During his absence, the court's two deputy prosecutors will assume his responsibilities.
Khan's decision to step aside temporarily follows months of growing pressure from human rights groups and some court officials, who had urged him to withdraw while the investigation was ongoing.
'Stepping aside helps protect the court's credibility and the trust of victims, staff, and the public. For the alleged victim and whistleblowers, this is also a moment of recognition and dignity,' said Danya Chaikel of human rights watchdog FIDH.
The court has not confirmed when the OIOS investigation will conclude, but the case comes at a time of rising global scrutiny of the ICC's role and credibility.
The decision comes as the court is pursuing high-profile investigations, including into Russia's assault on Ukraine and Israel's war on Gaza.
Khan requested arrest warrants for Russian President Vladimir Putin for the alleged unlawful deportation of Ukrainian children, and for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant for alleged war crimes in Gaza.
The United States, a vocal critic of the court's recent moves, imposed sanctions on Khan over his pursuit of Israeli officials. ICC leadership has since warned that such political attacks could endanger the institution's survival.
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