Saddam aides seek trial in Sweden

SADDAM HUSSEIN’S legal representatives yesterday appealed to Sweden to consider staging the former dictator’s trial for crimes against humanity.

Advisers to the deposed tyrant hope the country will provide a neutral venue for the hearing and also offer to detain him during any subsequent sentence.

London-based legal adviser Giovanni di Stefano has held discussions with Swedish authorities and said he hopes they will support efforts to move the trial outside Iraq.

“We don’t believe there can be a fair trial under the conditions of war apparent in Iraq,” said Mr di Stefano.

“How can you calmly talk with a client or hear witnesses when there are bombs exploding?”

The adviser said legal aides are also seeking to move the trial to Europe to ensure the ex-dictator does not face the death penalty.