The African Bar Association (AFBA) has declared its support for the position of the International Association of Democratic Lawyers (IADL) opposing efforts to remove the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), Karim A. A. Khan, KC, insisting that any decision affecting his tenure must be guided by the rule of law and the findings of an independent judicial panel.
In a statement dated 15 July 2026, AFBA President, High Chief Ibrahim Eddy Mark, said the Association aligns itself fully with the IADL’s position, emphasizing the need to safeguard the independence of the Office of the Prosecutor from political influence and external pressure.
The Association noted that an independent three-member judicial panel, constituted by the Bureau of the Assembly of States Parties (ASP), had reviewed the relevant materials relating to the allegations against Khan and unanimously concluded that the evidence did not establish misconduct or any breach of duty under the applicable legal framework.
According to AFBA, the findings of the independent panel should be respected and implemented by the Assembly of States Parties.
The Association warned that disregarding the conclusions of a duly constituted and impartial judicial body could undermine confidence in the integrity, independence, and credibility of the institutional processes of the International Criminal Court.
AFBA stressed that the independence of the Office of the Prosecutor remains fundamental to the effective administration of international criminal justice and must be protected at all times.
It maintained that decisions concerning the tenure of the ICC Prosecutor should be based solely on established legal standards, credible evidence, and fair procedures, rather than political considerations.
Consequently, the African Bar Association joined the International Association of Democratic Lawyers in urging the Assembly of States Parties to reject calls for the removal of Prosecutor Karim Khan where such calls are inconsistent with the findings of the independent judicial panel.
The Association further called on the Assembly, which is scheduled to meet on 24 July 2026, to uphold the principles of fairness, judicial independence, due process, and the rule of law by accepting and acting in accordance with the report of the three-member judicial panel.
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