The Hindu : Opinion / Letters to the Editor : Saddam Hussein's trial

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Wednesday, Jun 21, 2006

Opinion

Opinion - Letters to the Editor

Saddam Hussein's trial

The report that the prosecution is seeking the death penalty for former Iraqi President Saddam Hussein is disturbing. If the demand is acceded to, it will increase the number of terror attacks and escalate the civil war-like situation in Iraq. The need of the hour is phased withdrawal of the U.S.-led coalition forces and simultaneous induction of an international peace keeping force under the United Nations flag for a particular period of time. Iraqi affairs should be left to the people of Iraq.

C. Kannan,
Salem, T.N.

The death penalty has been sought for Mr. Hussein and two others for their alleged role in the killing of 148 Shias in 1982. One wonders what punishment will befit President George Bush for the death of countless innocent civilians in the "war on terror"? The U.S. invaded Iraq saying Saddam Hussein possessed weapons of mass destruction. The charge has been proved false. What is its locus standi to orchestrate a trial of the former President of a sovereign state? Does Saddam Hussein not deserve a more decent and neutral trial?

K.S. Ramesh,
Kottayam, Kerala

That defence witnesses were beaten up, lawyers were intimidated, and two defence attorneys were killed in the course of the trial do not justify the demand for the death penalty.

T. Chelladurai,
Tirunelveli, T.N.

Although none can deny that Saddam Hussein let loose a reign of terror, particularly against the Shias, and deserves to be punished, the question is whether his trial has been conducted in accordance with the principles of natural justice. The trial lacks credibility as it has been sponsored by a country that invaded Iraq.

M. Jeyaram,
Sholavandan, T.N.

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