Allegations Against ICC Prosecutor Still Under Review, Memo Reveals

The International Criminal Court (ICC) is continuing its review of allegations against its chief prosecutor, Karim Khan, even as some reports have suggested he has already been cleared.

Khan, who leads investigations into serious crimes such as war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide, has stepped aside temporarily following accusations of sexual misconduct involving a colleague. He has firmly denied the allegations.

According to an internal memo, the matter is still under examination, and no final decision has been made. The memo also urged staff not to rely on media reports claiming that Khan had been cleared, stressing that the process remains confidential and ongoing.

• ICC review of chief prosecutor Karim Khan amid allegations of misconduct
• Karim Khan denies sexual misconduct allegations, investigation ongoing
• ICC faces scrutiny as prosecutor's position remains under review

The allegations relate to claims of an inappropriate relationship with a lawyer working within Khan’s office. A year-long UN investigation carried out by the United Nations Office of Internal Oversight Services concluded in late 2025. Its findings have since been handed over to the ICC’s governing body, the Assembly of States Parties, which is responsible for deciding the next steps.

Khan’s legal team has referred to a separate review by an external panel of judges, which reportedly did not find evidence of misconduct. However, that assessment has not yet been formally accepted by the ICC leadership, leaving the situation unresolved.

The issue comes at a sensitive time for the ICC, which is already facing global attention over its investigations into major international conflicts. Any uncertainty surrounding its leadership could affect the court’s reputation and public trust.

Legal experts say the outcome of this ongoing review will be important not only for Khan personally but also for the credibility of ICC as an independent international institution.

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For now, the Assembly of States Parties is expected to study the findings carefully before making any decision. Until then, the review continues, and Khan’s position remains uncertain amid the wider ICC allegations and scrutiny.