The African Bar Association has called on the Bureau of the Assembly of States Parties to the International Criminal Court to accept the findings of an Ad Hoc Panel of Judicial Experts regarding allegations against ICC Prosecutor Karim Ahmad Khan.
In a statement issued by its President, High Chief Ibrahim Eddy Mark, the Association welcomed reports that the panel had submitted its full report and unanimously concluded that the factual findings of the Office of Internal Oversight Services (OIOS) did not establish misconduct or breach of duty under the applicable legal framework.
The Association noted that while the process remains ongoing, with the final decision resting with the Bureau, it strongly urged the body to adopt the panel’s conclusions and bring the matter to a close.
According to the AFBA, the assessment conducted by the panel, comprising independent and senior judicial experts, reflects the appropriate legal standard required in addressing such allegations.
It cautioned that any departure by a political body from the reasoned conclusions of experienced judges could undermine the institutional credibility of the Court and weaken confidence in the rule of law.
The Association further emphasised that the ICC, since its establishment, has handled numerous cases involving African countries, where parties were encouraged to place their trust in a fair and impartial judicial process.
It stated that those processes were anchored on the expectation that qualified and independent jurists would evaluate evidence and deliver reasoned decisions.
In light of this, the AFBA maintained that the unanimous conclusion of the panel should be respected as a demonstration of due process and judicial independence.
The Association warned that disregarding such findings could create the perception that the Court and its governing bodies are influenced by political considerations rather than legal principles.
It therefore urged the Bureau to ensure that the ICC continues to be seen as an institution guided by justice, fairness, and adherence to due process.
