No interruption in ICC work despite Khan’s removal

MANILA, Philippines — The Office of the Prosecutor (OTP) of the International Criminal Court said there would be no interruption in its work following the removal of top ICC prosecutor Karim Khan due to allegations of sexual misconduct.

The OTP said Deputy Prosecutors Nazhat Shameen Khan and Mame Mandiaye Niang will continue to head the office in the absence of Khan.

The two deputy prosecutors assumed responsibility for the management and administration of the OTP since Khan took a leave of absence in May 2025.

It was Niang who took over the case against former president Rodrigo Duterte, whose crimes against humanity trial is expected to begin in November.

“The Office wishes to reassure victims, affected communities, States Parties, civil society partners and all those who support its work that its activities in the fulfillment of its mandate continue without interruption,” the OTP said.

The OTP said it maintains a zero-tolerance policy against sexual harassment and other forms of misconduct, saying it is committed to upholding professionalism, integrity and accountability in carrying out its work.

On Friday, the Assembly of States Parties, which is composed of representatives from ICC member states, voted to dismiss Khan during a special session on disciplinary proceedings at the United Nations headquarters in New York.

The ICC said it “takes note” of the decision and called for respect of the privacy and rights of all those involved in the process.

Khan, who was appointed to a nine-year term in 2021, repeatedly denied the allegations against him.

His lawyer said the former prosecutor would challenge “the lawfulness and fairness of the decision through all available legal mechanisms.”