EQUIPO NIZKOR |
|
05Nov06
Saddam sentenced to hang
The former Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein was today sentenced to death by hanging. The ex-president, deposed in the US-led invasion three years ago, was convicted of crimes against humanity. Although visibly shaken, he greeted the sentence defiantly, shouting: "God is great!"
The charges relate to the killing of 148 Shias in the village of Dujail in 1982. Saddam's trial heard that he ordered the slaughter in revenge for an assassination attempt.
Sectarian tensions have been running high in Iraq in the run-up to today's hearing, with a major security clampdown in force.
A 12-hour curfew imposed in Baghdad and three other provinces - including Salahuddin, which contains Saddam's home town of Tikrit.
The reaction in Iraq to the news will be watched closely around the world including in the US where mid-term elections are just two days away.
Saddam Hussein's half-brother, Barzan Ibrahim, was also sentenced to death by hanging
[Source: AP, 05Nov06]
 | This document has been published on 06Nov06 by the Equipo Nizkor and Derechos Human Rights. In accordance with Title 17 U.S.C. Section 107, this material is distributed without profit to those who have expressed a prior interest in receiving the included information for research and educational purposes. |