Hussein Verdict Has Many Detractors
Since the death penalty was announced Sunday there have been many different groups speak out against the verdict because of its capital nature (the UN and the EU among others) as well as the trial itself. The UN Special Rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers has released a statement voicing his objections, many of which are aimed at the US. US Sec. of State Condoleezza Rice said "This is not something for Americans or, frankly, Europeans to comment on. I think this is something for Iraqis to decide." Of course, that's ignoring the fact that the Iraqi court which tried Saddam was funded and advised by the US government. Meanwhile, Saddam's second trial, this one for the alleged genocide of 100,000 Kurds in the 1980s, continues. Oh, and just in case you thought no one was pleased with the death sentence, consider the Iranian position: "We hope the fair, correct and legal verdict against this criminal ... is enforced."