'Chemical Ali' Will Be First Saddam Aide Tried

[Khephra]

BAGHDAD (Reuters) - Ali Hassan al-Majid, one of Saddam Hussein's most feared deputies, better known as "Chemical Ali," will be the first leader of the former regime to be tried for war crimes, Iraq's defense minister said on Wednesday.

The trial could begin as early as next week, Defense Minister Hazim al-Shaalan told reporters through an interpreter, and would certainly start by the middle of January -- days before Iraq is due to hold its first post-Saddam election.

"In the next few days we will have the trial of Ali Hassan al-Majid, one of the close followers of Saddam Hussein," Shaalan announced. "He will be the first to be tried."

Other officials see a big element of electioneering in this week's announcement of trials by Shaalan's ally, Prime Minister Iyad Allawi. Majid may appear at little more than a pre-trial hearing, diplomats in the U.S.-led coalition in Iraq said.

http://www.reuters.com/newsArticle.jhtml?type=topNews&storyID=7103041

[mr_hat]

1. His will be a tough act to follow.

[Renew Deal]

2. And you know why...

They want the easy conviction.

[David__77]

3. I feel this is an election ploy.

They are trying to burnish the credentials of the puppet government. It won't work at all.

[RuleofLaw]

4. What is he charged with

Not that I have much sympathy for any of these people, but what exactly is he charged with?

[chenGOD]

5. Back from the dead....?

Umm did I miss something here?



Or is this another liberal media conspiracy?

Ah never mind...

http://www.buzzflash.com/analysis/03/08/23_ali.html


LOL...this is better than a Martin Scorcese comedy.