icc member states
|

ICC member states decide Karim Khan’s future

The International Criminal Court (ICC) member states met on Friday to decide the future of suspended Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan, who is facing allegations of sexual misconduct made by a former staff member. Khan has firmly denied all accusations and insists he has done nothing wrong.

Representatives from the court’s 125 member countries gathered at the United Nations headquarters in New York to vote on whether Khan should continue in office or be removed permanently. The decision is being made through a secret ballot, and an absolute majority is required for a final outcome.

Karim Khan stepped aside from his duties in May 2025 after the allegations emerged and an internal investigation was launched. Last month, the ICC’s governing bureau suspended him from office, stressing that the suspension was a temporary administrative measure and did not represent a final judgment on the case.

During the meeting, Assembly of States Parties President Päivi Kaukoranta described the issue as a complex and sensitive disciplinary matter. She urged member states to conduct the proceedings fairly while respecting the rights, privacy and dignity of everyone involved and protecting the credibility of the court.

The allegations gained wider international attention after the complainant, identified only as Sarah, publicly shared her account in a recent media interview. She alleged that repeated inappropriate behaviour by Khan eventually led to physical assault. She also said the significant difference in authority between them meant there could be no genuine consent.

Khan has repeatedly denied the allegations. His legal team recently urged ICC member states not to remove him, arguing that he had not been given a fair opportunity to defend himself during the disciplinary process. His lawyers also warned that dismissing the prosecutor without proper legal safeguards could weaken the independence of future ICC prosecutors.

Supporters of Khan argue that the investigation did not conclusively establish misconduct and say the case could create a dangerous precedent for future office holders. Others believe the seriousness of the allegations requires decisive action to maintain public trust in the court.

Since becoming the ICC’s chief prosecutor in 2021, Khan has overseen several major international investigations. He gained global attention after seeking arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant over the Gaza conflict. The court also issued arrest warrants for several Hamas leaders during his tenure.

Those decisions led to strong criticism from Israel and sanctions imposed by the United States on Khan and several ICC judges, increasing political pressure on the court.

Legal experts remain divided over the case. Some argue that removing Khan is necessary to protect the ICC’s credibility and public confidence. Others maintain that any decision must be based strictly on due process and the rule of law rather than political considerations.

Similar Posts

  • | | |

    PTI moves Supreme Court over Imran Khan hospital t…

    Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has filed a contempt of court petition in the Supreme Court over the hospital transfer of party founder and former prime minister Imran Khan. The petition was filed by PTI lawyers Uzair Bhandari and Salman Akram Raja. In the petition, PTI has requested the Supreme Court to initiate contempt proceedings over the alleged violation of its August 18, 2026 order. The party has claimed that the court’s directions regarding Imran Khan’s medical treatment and hospital transfer were not properly implemented. PTI has asked the court to issue show-cause notices to those allegedly responsible for violating the order. It has also requested that the respondents be directed to appear personally before the Supreme Court and explain their position. The party has further sought a declaration that the respondents are guilty of contempt and requested punishment under the law if the alleged violation is established. The petition also calls for Imran Khan to be immediately transferred to Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad for a medical examination. PTI has urged the court to ensure that its previous order is fully implemented and has requested the appointment of a judicial officer or local commission to monitor compliance with the court’s directions. The petition comes after controversy over the implementation of the Supreme Court’s order concerning Imran Khan’s medical treatment. He was expected to be shifted to Shifa International Hospital but was instead taken to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) before being returned to Adiala Jail. The development triggered fresh political debate and raised questions within PTI over whether the Supreme Court’s directions had been followed. The party has now sought judicial intervention and legal action against those it believes failed to comply with the order.

  • | |

    Sindh to launch EV taxi service in September

    Sindh’s Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon chaired a meeting of the Transport and Mass Transit Department, where officials approved the launch of an electric vehicle (EV) taxi service in September and the induction of 50 double-decker buses in October as part of efforts to modernize public transport across the province. According to a spokesperson for the Transport Department, the meeting also decided to introduce 1,000 electric buses in phases by the end of the current year. The initiative aims to expand environmentally friendly public transport and improve commuting facilities for residents. The meeting further approved new routes for the Peoples Bus Service, connecting Larkana to Qambar and Qambar to Shahdadkot, to improve transport links in northern Sindh. Officials briefed the provincial minister on the progress of various transport and mass transit projects during the meeting. Sharjeel Memon directed authorities to complete the construction of all depots for the Red Line Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project within the scheduled timeline. He also instructed officials to ensure the early operational launch of the new Peoples Bus Service routes between Larkana, Qambar and Shahdadkot. The minister confirmed that the Sindh government’s EV taxi service will begin operations in September. He added that the planned fleet of 1,000 electric buses will be introduced gradually to strengthen the province’s public transport network. He also announced that 50 new double-decker buses are expected to arrive in Karachi in October, providing commuters with improved and modern travel facilities.

  • | |

    BLACKPINK’s Jennie breaks the internet yet again…

    BLACKPINK’s Jennie has once again captured the internet’s attention, proving why she remains one of K-pop’s biggest global stars. The singer and rapper is making headlines following the release of her latest music project, which has sparked an overwhelming response from fans across social media. Within hours of its debut, clips from the release spread rapidly online, with supporters praising Jennie’s powerful vocals, confident performance, and striking visual style. (rollingstone.com⁠) The latest release marks another milestone in Jennie’s flourishing solo career. After a string of successful singles and collaborations, the BLACKPINK member continues to expand her artistic identity while balancing group activities and individual projects. Fans have described the new track as bold, energetic, and refreshingly different, with many saying it showcases another side of Jennie’s musical abilities. Social media platforms were flooded with reactions shortly after the song dropped. Hashtags related to Jennie quickly began trending worldwide as fans shared music videos, performance clips, and their favorite lyrics. Many praised the production quality, stylish visuals, and the singer’s charismatic stage presence, while others predicted that the track would become one of the biggest K-pop releases of the year. (billboard.com⁠) Jennie’s influence extends far beyond music. Over the years, she has become a global fashion icon, regularly collaborating with luxury brands and appearing at major fashion events around the world. Every new project she releases attracts attention not only for the music itself but also for her signature style, which often inspires fashion trends among fans. Her latest comeback is no exception, with viewers already discussing her outfits, makeup, and overall concept. The success of the release also highlights Jennie’s growing presence as a solo artist. While BLACKPINK remains one of the world’s most successful girl groups, each member has increasingly explored individual creative projects. Jennie has consistently demonstrated her versatility by experimenting with different musical styles while maintaining the confidence and charisma that first made her famous. Industry analysts note that Jennie’s solo achievements continue to strengthen her international profile. Her music regularly attracts millions of streams within hours, while her videos generate enormous engagement across digital platforms. This latest release appears to be following the same path, earning widespread praise from both fans and critics for its polished production and memorable performance. (NME.com⁠) As excitement continues to grow, many fans are eagerly awaiting live performances and additional promotions for the new song. The release has also fueled speculation about future solo activities and potential BLACKPINK projects, keeping the global fanbase buzzing with anticipation. With yet another successful music drop, Jennie has reaffirmed her status as one of the most influential figures in modern pop music. Her ability to dominate conversations online, set trends, and deliver memorable performances continues to demonstrate why she remains a standout star in the ever-evolving world of K-pop.

  • |

    Rubio warns of catastrophic US-China conflict

    US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has warned that any military or economic conflict between the United States and China would have devastating consequences for both countries and the wider world, stressing the importance of carefully managing relations between the two global powers. Speaking during a televised interview, Rubio said the relationship between Washington and Beijing remains one of the most significant challenges in international diplomacy. He cautioned that a direct confrontation between the world’s two largest economies would create severe political, economic and security consequences far beyond their borders. Rubio said the United States must continue protecting its national interests while avoiding actions that could trigger a major conflict. He described balancing competition with stability as one of the most difficult responsibilities of foreign policy. His remarks come as strategic rivalry between the United States and China continues to deepen across multiple sectors, including trade, technology, security and global influence. Economic tensions have remained high in recent years, with both countries imposing restrictions on each other’s industries. The United States has expanded trade measures and tightened controls on several Chinese products and technologies, citing national security concerns. Washington has also introduced new restrictions on advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence and robotics, as part of broader efforts to protect sensitive industries and limit the transfer of critical technologies. China has strongly criticised these measures, calling them unfair and unilateral. Beijing has repeatedly opposed US trade restrictions and warned that it could respond with countermeasures to protect its economic interests. Competition between the two countries has also intensified in the field of artificial intelligence, where both sides have exchanged allegations over technology development and intellectual property. Beyond economic and technological issues, both nations continue to strengthen their global influence through different diplomatic strategies. While the United States has focused on reinforcing partnerships with regional allies, China has expanded its engagement with developing countries and strengthened ties with nations across the Global South. Analysts believe that despite growing competition, both Washington and Beijing recognise the importance of maintaining communication to prevent tensions from escalating into open conflict.

  • |

    Asian Football Confederation joins UEFA and CONCACAF in FIFA proposal standoff

    The Asian Football Confederation has taken a clear stand, and it is backing UEFA and CONCACAF on a growing football dispute. The issue centres on a FIFA proposal. It involves bringing private investment into the World Cup’s business operations. The AFC confirmed its position on Friday. In its statement, the AFC expressed solidarity with the two other confederations. It raised serious concerns over FIFA’s plan. The organisation represents 47 member nations. These include Australia, China, Japan and Saudi Arabia. Its statement made clear how seriously the body views the matter. The AFC did not stop there. It pointed out that talk of a possible World Cup boycott has already entered public discussion. According to the AFC, this alone should concern anyone who cares about the sport’s future. It added that this concern should apply across all confederations, not just a few. FIFA responded with its own statement soon after. It said every member association should get a fair chance to review the proposal. The governing body also acknowledged the feedback it had received from UEFA and CONCACAF. FIFA confirmed something significant in its response. All 41 member associations under CONCACAF had rejected the plan. This body oversees football across North and Central America. Their rejection focused specifically on selling a stake in the World Cup’s operations. FIFA also addressed reports around its consultation process. It said the process had been disrupted by what it called inaccurate media coverage. Still, it maintained respect for the concerns raised publicly. It reaffirmed its commitment to keeping things open and democratic. The organisation said it plans to continue with its consultation as scheduled. Its goal, according to the statement, is to let every member vote based on facts. FIFA wants to avoid decisions being shaped by speculation instead. This disagreement adds to a growing list of tensions. FIFA’s push for private investment has already faced resistance from two major confederations. Now, with the AFC joining them, the pressure on football’s global body appears to be increasing. For now, attention remains fixed on FIFA’s next move. All eyes are on how it plans to carry out its consultation process. Many are also watching to see whether these mounting concerns can be addressed, without deepening the divide among football’s governing bodies worldwide.

  • |

    New anti-Taliban group emerges in Afghanistan

      Armed resistance against the Taliban appears to be expanding in Afghanistan, with a new anti-Taliban group reportedly emerging in the northern province of Faryab. Sources say growing opposition to the Taliban’s style of governance, alleged ethnic discrimination and corruption has fueled resistance among sections of the Afghan population. Opposition has also increased over restrictions on education, employment and basic human rights, while the ongoing situation has contributed to a rise in Afghan migration toward Europe. According to sources, fighters affiliated with the newly formed Liberation Front carried out an attack against Taliban forces in Faryab province on Monday. The group is expected to formally announce its organisational structure, leadership and future activities within the next few days. The emergence of the new group comes as other anti-Taliban factions also signal plans to intensify their activities. General Sami Sadat, head of the Afghanistan United Front, and General Yasin Zia of the Afghanistan Freedom Front have both announced their intention to step up resistance against the Taliban. The developments indicate growing challenges for the Taliban as it continues to face opposition from armed groups as well as criticism over its policies on governance, human rights, education and employment.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *