Saddam Defense Likely to Be Mix of Tactics

[GreenPartyVoter]

AMMAN, Jordan (AP) - Even fallen dictators deserve a fair trial, some of Saddam Hussein's lawyers argue. Others on the legal team say they're rallying to the cause of a symbol of Arab pride toppled by an imperial power.

That combination means the defense strategy during a trial expected to start next year is likely to be a mix of tactics, from trying to prove Saddam is not as vicious as many believe, to challenging the legitimacy of a court chosen while Iraq was under U.S. occupation.

"If we put a sufficient amount of traps in the functioning of this court, the Americans and the new Iraqi authorities might perhaps backstep," said French attorney Emmanuel Ludot, one of 21 lawyers who say they have been appointed by Saddam's wife Sajida.

Ludot said one goal is to have the U.N. propose other judges - and if that doesn't work challenge the current court at every step.

http://apnews1.iwon.com/article/20040717/D83SK3FG0.html