Defendant Hussein Appears in Iraqi Court

With the entire world watching, the proceedings against former Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein and 11 of his aides began yesterday with Hussein’s arraignment before the Iraqi Special Tribunal.

It has been six months since Hussein was publicly seen being given a dental examination after being arrested by the U.S. military in December 13 of last year.

Tribunal General Director Salem Chalabi notified Hussein that the investigation and prosecution of his wrongdoings as ruler of Iraq had started.

Because of the complexity of investigating a long list of criminal charges including war crimes, torture, crimes against humanity and genocide, is expected to be some time before the formal indictment and trial. There is possibility that it might extend into as late as next year.

Before the hearing, Jordanian lawyer Mohammad Al Rashidan, who leads a 20-person defense team appointed by Hussein’s wife, Sajida, asserted that “the current Iraqi judicial branch is the same as the executive,” adding that on the grounds of separation of the three branches of government, the trial “is not legitimate.”

However, Iraqi Justice Minister Malek Dohan Al Hasan strongly hinted at the possibility of delivering the highest sentence, stating, “If Hussein is found to be guilty, he will receive the death penalty.”

Prime Minister Iyad Allawi stated, “I secured tons of corroborative facts to prove Hussein’s crimes,” and added, “International organizations have promised to provide additional material to prove his guilt.”

Young-Sik Kim spear@donga.com