Malaysian ICC staffer breaks silence over sexual misconduct allegations against chief prosecutor Karim Khan
A Malaysian lawyer and ICC staffer has publicly detailed sexual misconduct allegations against ICC chief prosecutor Karim Khan. She denies claims that her accusations are politically motivated, asserting that her complaint stems solely from her personal experience of harassment.
Why it matters
The allegations against a high-profile international official raise significant questions about workplace conduct and institutional integrity at the ICC.
THE HAGUE, July 18 — A Malaysian lawyer who accused International Criminal Court (ICC) chief prosecutor Karim Khan of sexual misconduct has spoken publicly for the first time, rejecting suggestions that her allegations formed part of a politically motivated effort to undermine the British barrister ahead of a vote that could remove him from office.
Sarah’s appearance was her first public account of allegations that have dominated the ICC for months and triggered an unprecedented disciplinary process against its chief prosecutor. The Guardian first reported the allegations last year.
Sarah, 39, served as Khan’s direct special assistant between 2023 and 2024 after several years working at the ICC.
Speaking to CNN’s Christiane Amanpour on Thursday, she described what she said was a gradual escalation in Khan’s conduct, beginning with emotional boundary-testing before becoming physical.
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