Milosevic fit to stand trial but may need lawyer

FORMER Yugoslav President Slobodan Milosevic is fit to stand trial, but he may not be healthy enough to continue defending himself against charges of war crimes and genocide, the UN tribunal ruled yesterday.

The judges in The Hague ordered Milosevic, aged 62, to undergo a new medical examination by an independent cardiologist and postponed hearings in his case until July 14. A week later, the trial will be adjourned until the end of August, allowing Milosevic further time to prepare his case.

The judges also instructed the tribunal's registrar to identify a lawyer who could be assigned to Milosevic's defence if necessary.