Former Ethiopian dictator jailed for life for genocide

Former Ethiopian dictator Mengistu Haile Mariam was sentenced to life imprisonment today, ending a 12-year trial for genocide and other crimes committed during his bloody, iron-fisted rule.

Eleven of the former ruler’s top officials were also sentenced to life, while 47 other aides received sentences ranging up to 25 years, judge Medhin Kiros said.

Chief prosecutor Yosef Kiros said immediately after sentencing that they may appeal because they want Mengistu, who was tried in absentia, to face the death penalty.

The officials on trial showed no emotion as the sentences were read out by the judge in the packed courtroom in the capital, Addis Ababa.