INTERNATIONAL Criminal Court (ICC) Prosecutor Karim Khan has temporarily stepped aside while a United Nations investigation into sexual misconduct allegations against him nears completion.
His office confirmed the leave, citing Khan’s commitment to preserving the ICC’s integrity.
Though unprecedented, the move does not interrupt ongoing investigations, including the ICC’s probe into former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s deadly “war on drugs.” Khan led the investigation that resulted in an arrest warrant served to Duterte in March. Filipino human rights lawyer Kristina Conti assured that the deputy prosecutor, Mame Mandiaye Niang, continues overseeing the case, adding that proceedings remain on schedule.
In a statement through his legal team, Khan denied the allegations and said media attention made it difficult to perform his duties. His lawyers clarified he has not resigned and intends to return. NGOs welcomed Khan’s decision as a step toward accountability, noting it upholds the court’s credibility.
Khan said his leave aims to ensure a fair process and protect public trust in the ICC. Rights groups added that his absence could improve internal dynamics and strengthen the prosecutor’s office as it continues its mission of justice and accountability.
