ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan in Kenya for MKU Graduation

Mount Kenya University’s 28th graduation ceremony will be attended by Karim Khan, the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC). 

The university will award Khan with an Honorary Doctor of Law (Honoris Causa) for his extensive legal experience. Khan holds a Bachelor of Laws degree with Honours from King’s College, University of London, and has represented high-profile individuals such as former Liberian President Charles Taylor and the son of the late Libyan dictator Moammar Gadhafi. He is also known in Kenya for representing President William Ruto during his Hague trial for crimes against humanity. 

Khan, who succeeded Fatou Bensouda of Gambia as ICC prosecutor in June 2021, will join 6,108 graduates who will receive various degrees in the ceremony held at Happy Valley Graduation Grounds in Thika. MKU Vice Chancellor, Prof. Deogratius Jaganyi has encouraged those who struggle to find employment to persist despite closed doors, in order to succeed in the job market. His extensive experience includes leading various international criminal cases as a prosecutor, defence attorney, and advocate for victims.

“He (Khan) has amassed massive experience in his more than 30 years of distinguished service as a barrister. He has been a King’s Counsel since 2011. He is also a Bencher of Lincoln’s Inn and was appointed a Recorder of the Crown Court in 2018,” MKU said in a statement on Friday. 

Having dealt with intricate cases across Asia, Europe, and Africa and having worked as a part-time judge for the Crown Court of England & Wales, Khan has consistently displayed his expertise. The period between June 2017 to June 2018 saw him functioning as the President of the International Criminal Court Bar Association (ICCBA) while also being the honoree for the organization’s first presidency.