Karim Khan KC

Päivi Kaukoranta, the Finnish president of the Assembly of States Parties (ASP), announced the decision in a statement yesterday.

The allegations against Mr Khan, which he denies, are reportedly of a sexual nature.

A complaint was originally brought to the Independent Oversight Mechanism (IOM), which exercises full operational independence from the International Criminal Court and reports directly to the ASP.

“However, given the particular circumstances of this case, including the IOM’s victim-centred approach, and perceptions of possible and future conflicts of interest, the IOM has indicated that it has no objection to exceptionally resorting to an external investigation,” Ms Kaukoranta said.

“An external investigation is therefore being pursued in order to ensure a fully independent, impartial and fair process, in conformity with the legal framework of the ICC and the IOM and following a victim-centred approach.

“The practical modalities of the investigation are being finalised. I call on all involved parties to cooperate fully with that investigation.”

She added: “I must insist on due respect for the privacy and the rights of all involved parties as well as the confidentiality of such an investigation. Further information can only be shared once the investigation has concluded.”