Two Women Accuse ICC Chief Prosecutor of Sexual Misconduct Amid High-Stakes Vote
Two women have publicly detailed allegations of sexual misconduct against Karim Khan, the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), as the organization faces a critical vote on his removal. The accusations, which have drawn international attention, center on alleged inappropriate behavior during official trips and workplace encounters, with Khan denying all claims.
Sarah’s Allegations: A ‘Slow Encroachment’ on Boundaries
Sarah, an ICC lawyer identified by her first name, described “an escalation of attempts” by Khan during her tenure as his special assistant from 2023 to 2024. In an interview with CNN’s Christiane Amanpour, she alleged that Khan entered her hotel room in Colombia and “put his hand down my leggings, to grope me, to put his tongue in my ear” while she pretended to be asleep. Sarah, who remains an ICC employee, emphasized that her complaint was “because of what happened to me, not for any other reason.”
Khan’s legal team has dismissed the claims as “not new,” with lawyer Sareta Ashraph stating that the “complete evidential picture paints a far different picture than there’s been presented here today.” The ICC’s executive committee suspended Khan after concluding he had committed “serious misconduct” linked to Sarah’s allegations.
Patricia’s Claims: A Pattern of Harassment
A second woman, referred to by the pseudonym Patricia, told Amanpour she was subjected to “a constant onslaught” of inappropriate behavior during her internship with Khan in 2009. She alleged that Khan “groped me, grabbed me, kissed my face, touched my hair, trying to get me to engage in intimate activity.” Patricia first came forward to the Guardian last year, but her identity remains protected.
Khan’s representatives have previously suggested the allegations could be tied to his 2024 decision to seek arrest warrants for Israeli leaders, but internal ICC documents seen by the Guardian found no evidence supporting claims that Sarah was “being used by third parties, including intelligence agencies.”
Critical Vote Looms as ICC Faces Internal Crisis
The ICC’s 125 member states will vote on July 24 to determine Khan’s future. The disciplinary process, initiated by the executive committee, has been criticized by Khan’s legal team as “politically motivated” and “procedurally unfair.”
“This foray into the media comes a week before the vote,” Ashraph said, arguing that “a huge amount of other relevant information that has not been presented on this programme” could alter the narrative.
What’s at Stake for the ICC?
FAQ: Key Questions About the ICC and Karim Khan
What are the allegations against Karim Khan?
Two women have accused Khan of sexual misconduct, including unwanted physical contact and inappropriate advances during official trips and workplace interactions. Khan denies all claims.
Why is the ICC considering removing him?
The ICC’s executive committee suspended Khan, citing “serious misconduct” linked to the allegations. Member states will vote on July 24 to decide his future.
How has Khan’s team responded?
Khan’s lawyers argue the disciplinary process is “politically motivated” and “procedurally unfair,” claiming the evidence presented in media interviews is incomplete.
Did You Know?
Pro Tip: Follow the ICC’s July Vote
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