Saddam back in Baghdad court for genocide trial

Saddam Hussein attended his genocide trial today, after the presiding Iraqi judge threw him out of court yesterday because he protested against the replacement of his lawyers who had boycotted the session.

Saddam’s defence team had accused the Baghdad court of violating judicial procedures.

The chief judge, Mohammed Oreibi al-Khalifa, appointed replacement lawyers so the trial could continue.

The move angered Saddam, who thundered, “I don’t want to be in this cage any more,” referring to the court.

“I’m the presiding judge,” al-Khalifa snapped. “I decide about your presence here. Get him out!” – pointing to guards to remove the ousted president.