ICC top prosecutor removed over sexual misconduct allegations
The International Criminal Court has voted to remove chief prosecutor Karim Khan following allegations of sexual misconduct. Khan, who denies the claims, is currently suspended and facing legal challenges regarding his tenure and ability to practice law.
Why it matters
The removal of a high-profile prosecutor at the world's only permanent war-crimes tribunal could significantly impact the court's stability and international standing.
Members of the International Criminal Court (ICC) have voted to dismiss Karim Khan as chief prosecutor for alleged sexual misconduct.
Elected the ICC's third prosecutor in 2021, Khan was suspended last month. The decision to remove him was passed with 82 votes in favour.
The court's oversight body found in June he had committed a "serious breach of duty and serious misconduct" by engaging in an improper sexual relationship with a junior ICC staff member and seeking to stop her pursuing her complaint.
Khan has repeatedly denied all the allegations against him. His lawyer said he would challenge "the lawfulness and fairness of the decision through all available legal mechanisms".
It was not immediately clear what legal avenues remained open to the ousted prosecutor.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in