Senegal to hold trial of former Chad dictator

Former dictator of Chad, Hissene Habre is to face a trial for crimes against humanity in Senegal next month, announced Senegal's justice minister.

Justice Minister Aminata Toure made the announcement this week after Senegal’s parliament voted to host the special tribunal, authorised by the African Union. The initiative has been hailed as a step forward in African countries taking the lead in prosecuting war criminals from the continent, with Belgium offering to help finance the cost of this trial.

Habre faces charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity, from when he ruled Chad in 1982 – 1990. He since fled to Senegal where he has remained in exile since.

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