ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan Ousted Over Sexual Misconduct Allegations

In a decisive vote, the International Criminal Court (ICC) voted 82‑to‑5 to remove Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan after an investigation found him guilty of “serious breach of duty” involving an alleged inappropriate relationship with a junior staff member. 🗯

Khan, elected in 2021, has denied every accusation and says he will challenge the decision through legal channels. The ICC affirmed its commitment to a safe, inclusive workplace while hinting that the court’s credibility could be at risk amid political pressure.

The removal comes amid a broader “whole‑of‑government” campaign by the United States to dismantle the ICC, with sanctions that could deny the court jurisdiction over U.S. nationals. Kahn’s case underscores the tension between global justice and national politics.

Key points:

1. 81 votes in favour of removal; 5 abstentions.


2. Investigation conducted by the UN Office of Internal Oversight Services (OIOS).


3. Firm appeals to audit the ICC’s oversight mechanism.


4. Concerns about the court’s future after the sanctioning wave.

For more background, read the full investigative report from Reuters and the ICC’s official statement on the matter.