Naharnet - Judge Bert Swart of STL Dies - February 25, 2011

It is with great sadness that the Special Tribunal for Lebanon announces the death of Judge Bert Swart, the presiding judge of the Trial Chamber, said the STL in a press release. Judge Swart was involved with the work of the STL from its inception, playing a critical role in the Tribunal's legal framework. The death of Judge Swart is a considerable loss both to the STL and to the international legal community. He will be remembered for his wise and thoughtful contributions to international criminal justice as an academic and as a judge. His wisdom, experience, and dedication will be missed by his colleagues. Judge Swart died after a protracted illness. The President of the STL, Judge Antonio Cassese and all the staff at the Tribunal send their deepest condolences to Judge Swart's wife, family, and friends. The process of finding a replacement for Judge Swart on the trial is underway. On February 3, Antonio Cassese had asked U.N. Secretary General Ban Ki-moon to appoint a replacement for Judge Swart, who "regretfully will not be able to perform his duties due to serious and protracted illness." "This does not affect at all the work of the Tribunal, since the Trial Chamber will not need to convene until pre-trial proceedings are well under way," the STL press office had stated.

Beirut, Updated 25 Feb 11, 16:21