Darfur criminal courts to hear cases “next week”

Dec 11, 2005 (KHARTOUM) — The minister of justice, Mohamed Ali al-Mardi has reaffirmed that the special criminal courts in Southern Darfur State will next week begin hearing into the infamous case of Hammadah village, where more than 80 people were killed.

In a press statement, the minister of justice said that court proceedings would begin through the special criminal court.

Despite the fact that there are efforts which are being made to reconcile the rival sides [presumably outside the law court], this, the minister said, was a normal procedure followed by all courts, and would therefore not hinder any effort aimed at resolving the problem.

He further pointed out that it is the prerogative of the court to allow the AU, UN agencies and non-governmental organizations to attend the court sessions – this he said was in accordance with the order issued by the chief justice for the setting up of the court.

(ST)