ICC Suspends Chief Prosecutor Amid Growing Misconduct Allegations

The International Criminal Court’s (ICC) chief prosecutor, Karim Khan, was suspended with immediate effect while an investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct and abuse of power remains open.

The suspension, enacted by a group within the ICC’s Management Oversight Body, will be voted on by the court’s 125 member states during a special session convened “as soon as possible.” The bureau stressed that the move does not prejudice the outcome of the case.

Khan has denied all accusations, with his lawyers describing the decision as “unlawful, procedurally unfair and unsupported by evidence.” Reporters cite a document outlining alleged misconduct, including unwanted sexual touching and abuse of authority.

A two‑thirds majority is required to confirm any finding, followed by a separate vote on whether Khan should be removed from office. Khan has stayed on voluntary leave since May 2025 while fighting the allegations.

The controversy runs parallel to heightened political tensions over the ICC. In March 2024, the United States imposed sanctions on Khan after he sought arrest warrants for Israeli leaders over alleged crimes linked to the Gaza war, a move that was later expanded to include several ICC judges, prosecutors and Palestinian advocacy groups.

If the court decides to remove Khan, he could appeal to the Administrative Tribunal of the International Labour Organization, potentially leading to a lengthy legal challenge with the possibility of reinstatement and compensation if the disciplinary process is found flawed.