The Pan-African Business Forum has expressed strong support for Karim A. A. Khan, urging that his role as Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) be respected amid what it describes as increasing political pressure on the institution.
In a formal communication to Päivi Kaukoranta, President of the Assembly of States Parties, the Forum highlighted concerns over reports suggesting that political considerations could be influencing decisions within the ICC, potentially overshadowing independent judicial findings.
Dr. Ladislas Prosper Agbesi, chairman of the Forum, referenced a recent review by a panel of three international judges which concluded unanimously that no misconduct or breach of duty had been established against Khan. The Forum emphasized that any attempt to question or reinterpret these findings could undermine both the integrity of due process and public confidence in international justice.
The statement praised Khan’s tenure, noting that his leadership has helped the Court adopt a more balanced global perspective, moving away from an overemphasis on Africa. It further stressed the broader economic implications, noting that confidence in the ICC and other international institutions is crucial for investor trust, capital flows, and Africa’s engagement in the global economy.
The Forum called on the ICC and its stakeholders to uphold judicial independence and allow Khan to continue his work without interference. It warned that prolonging the issue for political reasons or through media narratives could damage the Court’s credibility and weaken trust in international legal systems.
“The immediate and unqualified acceptance of the judicial panel’s findings is essential,” the statement said, “to preserve both the rule of law and the stability of international institutions.”
The Pan-African Business Forum concluded by urging that the matter be considered closed, emphasizing that respecting the Prosecutor’s independence is vital not only for justice but also for Africa’s economic and diplomatic standing.
