Charles Taylor refuses to appear in court for the second time

Written by Ndeamoh Mansaray

Wednesday, 20 August 2008

Former President of Liberia Charles Taylor Tuesday refused to appear in court for the second time after the end of the court's recess. According to Lead Defense Counsel Courtney Griffiths his client continues to express concern on the two extra security measures in place while he is being transported to court. He said Mr. Taylor would submit himself to these extra security measures and will be in court on Wednesday, on the condition that the Registry will continue to take steps to pressure the Dutch authorities to lift the measures. Responding to directives given to him by the judges on Monday, Head of the Special Court in The Hague, Gregory Townsend, said the measures were put in place by the Transport and Support Service of the Department of Prisons of the Ministry of Justice in Netherlands.He said the department was responsible for the transportation of all detainees in the Netherlands including those of the Special Court. Mr. Townsend said Mr. Taylor has been excluded from of all other maximum security measures, expect the two new ones. Reacting to reasons for the new security measures which were disclosed only to the Judges in Chambers, Presiding Judge Teresa Doherty said the Chamber considered the explanation and other documents distributed to the court. But she said they were still not satisfied with the reasons why the accused was submitted to the new security measures. The Chamber directed the Registrar, to find a speedy solution to the matter, and to report back to the court next Monday. Mr. Taylor is expected to be in court today Wednesday.

Last Updated ( Wednesday, 20 August 2008 )

 

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