The Assembly of States Parties concluded its formal disciplinary proceedings regarding allegations against the Chief Prosecutor, marked by an official ASP President ICC statement. Following a secret ballot vote at United Nations Headquarters in New York, the Assembly voted by majority to remove Prosecutor Karim Khan from office. Consequently, Assembly President Päivi Kaukoranta announced that member states found the elected official committed serious misconduct and a serious breach of duty.
Disciplinary Proceedings and Institutional Governance
This historic decision follows an extensive multi-step evaluation process initiated after misconduct allegations emerged. In fact, the comprehensive investigation involved reviews by the UN Office of Internal Oversight Services, independent judicial expert panels, and formal submissions from the ASP Bureau.
“The Assembly decided by a majority of States Parties that the Prosecutor committed serious misconduct, removing him from office with immediate effect,” stated President Päivi Kaukoranta.
Specifically, Assembly leadership emphasized that protecting staff dignity, ensuring institutional accountability, and safeguarding judicial independence remain paramount principles.
Interim Leadership and Operational Continuity
Furthermore, Deputy Prosecutors Nazhat Shameem Khan and Mame Mandiaye Niang continue managing the Office of the Prosecutor without operational interruption. Indeed, preserving institutional integrity ensures that active preliminary examinations, investigations, and court prosecutions proceed smoothly.
Therefore, member nations will soon initiate election procedures to select a new Chief Prosecutor. Moving forward, maintaining strict professional accountability reinforces global confidence in Rome Statute institutions.
Assembly of States Parties. (2026, July 24). Statement by the ASP President following the conclusion of disciplinary proceedings involving the Prosecutor. International Criminal Court. https://www.icc-cpi.int/news/statement-asp-president-following-conclusion-disciplinary-proceedings-involving-prosecutor