The Special Tribunal for Lebanon Trial Chamber has scheduled a
hearing on June 13 to hear arguments on the jurisdiction of the STL and the
legality of its creation, announced the tribunal in statement on Monday.
“The defense counsel representing the four accused - Salim Ayyash,
Mustafa Badreddine, Hussein Oneissi, and Assad Sabra - filed motions recently
challenging the legality and jurisdiction of the tribunal,” it said.
In their motions, the Defense argued that the STL was established
unlawfully and applies justice selectively.
It is common practice in international tribunals for the Defense
to challenge the jurisdiction of the courts, explained the statement.
The Prosecution has until June 6 to file a response to the Defense
motions, it revealed.
It added: “The landmark hearing will be another step towards trial
in the case of Ayyash et al.”
The Trial Chamber ruled in February that the four accused would be
tried in their absence.
The STL is the only existing international tribunal that can hold
trials in absentia, since its statute includes elements of both Lebanese and
international law.
Lawyers for the victims of the February 14, 2005 attack have been
invited by the Trial Chamber to file observations on the challenges to the
STL's jurisdiction.
The tribunal's Registrar appointed legal representatives for the
victims participating in proceedings last week.
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http://www.naharnet.com/stories/en/40948
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