ICC Chief Prosecutor Takes Leave Amid Sexual Misconduct Investigation

The International Criminal Court (ICC) is in the spotlight after its chief prosecutor, Karim Khan, announced a temporary leave of absence until the completion of a sexual misconduct inquiry against him. The investigation, which began last year, has been marked by allegations including unwanted sexual touching and abuse, prompting several ICC staff members and organizations to call for his resignation.

Khan has strenuously denied these allegations, which were first reported to the ICC's governing body in October. In a letter to staff, Khan emphasized his commitment to the credibility of the ICC while confirming that his deputy prosecutors would manage the office during his absence. The investigation is being conducted by the UN Office of Internal Oversight Services, and its completion timeline remains uncertain. Sources reported that Khan recently participated in a final interview with UN investigators as part of the process.

The urgency surrounding this inquiry is compounded by critiques of the ICC and Khan following their pursuit of arrest warrants related to the Israel-Hamas conflict, including one for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for alleged war crimes in Gaza. With the court already facing scrutiny, the ICC has urged member states to support it amidst sanctions imposed by former US President Donald Trump against its officials. The developments raise questions about the institution's future and the continued fight for justice on a global scale as these serious allegations unfold.