The allegations include unwanted physical contact, coercive behavior, and abuse of authority during a period spanning over a year
By our correspondent
ISLAMABAD: The International Criminal Court (ICC) is preparing to conduct an external investigation into serious allegations of sexual misconduct involving its chief prosecutor, Karim Khan. The accusations, which were reported last month, have prompted the court’s governing body to take over the inquiry after concerns were raised within the institution about the independence of the internal investigation.
The allegations, brought forward by a former colleague—a female lawyer who worked directly under Khan—include accusations of unwanted physical contact, coercion, and abuse of authority over a year-long period. Khan, who has held the role of ICC prosecutor since 2021, has denied the allegations and stated that he will fully cooperate with the inquiry. His wife has confirmed that Khan has been undergoing treatment for depression, and his ongoing unemployment added significant stress to his personal and professional life.
As the investigation unfolds, staff members have voiced concerns about potential conflicts of interest, particularly with the appointment of a new head of the court’s internal oversight body, who previously worked in Khan’s office. These concerns have raised questions about whether the internal mechanisms of the court can ensure the independence and impartiality required for such a sensitive inquiry. Khan’s office has referred all media inquiries to his legal representatives, who have yet to comment on the specifics of the case.
This scandal has surfaced at a particularly delicate moment for the ICC, as Khan’s office is dealing with high-profile investigations, including a request for arrest warrants for Israeli leaders over alleged war crimes in Gaza. The allegations against Khan have sparked accusations that they are part of a broader effort to undermine the credibility of the ICC, especially given the political tensions surrounding its handling of the Israel-Palestine conflict.
