SG/SM/10203
IK/525
9 November 2005
Secretary-General Condemns Brutal Attacks on Three Defence Counsels to Iraqi Criminal Tribunal
NEW YORK, 8 November (UN Headquarters) -- The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan:
The Secretary-General condemns the brutal attacks against three defence counsels to the Special Iraqi Criminal Tribunal since the opening of the trial on 19 October, including the cold-blooded murders of Mr. Adel al-Zubeidi today and Mr. Sadoun al-Janabi last month. These actions undermine efforts to uphold the cause of justice and the rule of law in Iraq. In this regard, it is vitally important that the security of all involved with the Tribunal should be equally assured to ensure a trial free from intimidation and coercion. The Secretary-General hopes that the Tribunal will uphold the international standards of justice necessary to ensure its legitimacy, fairness and independence.
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