Senegal: Hissene Habre trial kicks off

Dakar, Senegal (PANA) - The long-awaited trial of former Chadian President, Hissène Habré, for crimes against humanity, war crimes and torture, opened here Monday, PANA reported, saying that the court premises was rowdy as many Habre supporters shouted down the Extraordinary African Chambers conducting the trial.

PANA reported that prison warders had a herculean task forcing Habré to the dock, while his supporters were evacuated from the court.

Habré, who said he does not recognize the extraordinary African Chambers, had refused to appear.

A dozen lawyers representing victims during his regime were present in the courtroom, while defence attorneys were not present.

Habre was President of Chad between 1982 and 1990.
-0- PANA KARL/JSG/MTA/VAO 20July2015