Hussein challenges authority of court

[ckramer]

Saddam Hussein launched what could be his final battle yesterday, making clear from the first moment of his trial for crimes against humanity that his strategy would be to challenge the very existence of the court and attempt to harness Iraqi dissatisfaction with the US occupation.

Hussein went on the offensive as soon as the presiding judge, Rizgar Mohammed Amin, asked him to identify himself.

''I maintain my constitutional position as the president of Iraq, and I have the right to remain silent as to my identity," said Hussein, 2 1/2 years after he was deposed by the US invasion. ''You know me, you know who I am, but I do not recognize your authority. I did not hire you."

link

[Sandpiper]

1. Uh-oh, he's not playing along

Time to up his meds.

[Zynx]

2. In actuality, he has a point as strange as it is.

Legitimacy of a government after something like what happened in 2003 is a very tricky legal matter. It is entirely possible to argue his position.

[BigYawn]

3. Does UN recognize this judicial process in Iraq?

If not then Saddam has a point. He will stretch this out as
long as possible to prolong his life. The shia & kurds in Iraq
who together constitute 80% of Iraq can't wait to execute Saddam.

[newyawker99]

4. Hi BigYawn!!

Welcome to DU!! :toast:

[ckramer]

5. to quote Bill Bonner

"But pity the poor ex-dictator. Imperial armies took over, killed 100,000 or so innocent people, and they accuse him of murder! What kind of justice is this, he wants to know..."

LOL