Saddam Hussein has appeared in a video lambasting Iraq's new government, and complaining about his lack of access to a lawyer as he waits to be tried for war crimes.
In the video, Saddam is seen to ask for his attorney and criticises his inability to see the lawyer before trial.
Quote:
"By law, a lawyer should be with the defendant. Is it fair that the lawyer cannot see the defendant except in court sessions?"
Rather ironic that the former dictator now falls back on the rule of law.
The video was broadcast on Al-Arabiya TV, then also released to CNN, and shows a hearing that took place with Saddam Hussein on 21 July.
Saddam's attorneys have said that he should not be tried for anything, because he is immune to all charges under the Iraqi constitution as it was written under his rule.
Well that would be the case wouldn't it?
I doubt very much that that line of argument will hold much water with the prosecuting authorities.
In the video, Saddam appears defiant yet frail and tired.
The official presiding over the session explains to him that it was a hearing, and that he was in the custody of the Iraqi government.
Saddam asks:
"Which government?"
Adding:
"I am detained and this is a game. ... I am detained by the Iraqi government, which is appointed by the Americans."
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