Genocide trial begins in Guatemala

BBC ONLINE

The trial of the former military ruler of Guatemala,

Efrain Rios Montt, for genocide and crimes against
humanity begun in Guatemala City yesterday.
During Rios Montts 17-month rule in the 1980s,
more than 1,700 indigenous people are thought to
have
been
killed.
The UN says it is the first time a former head of state
has faced a national court for such crimes rights
activists
say
the
trial
is
historic.
The former general denies the charges. The trial is
expected
to
last
months.
Shortly before the start of the trial, the defence team
of
86-year
old
was
replaced.
His new lawyers filed motions which could have
delayed the proceedings, but were rejected by the
court.
Gen Rios Montt faces charges of crimes against
humanity in connection with the killing of 1,771
indigenous Mayans during his rule in 1982-1983.
This is the first time, anywhere in the world, that a
former head of state is being put on trial for
genocide by a national tribunal, said the United
Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Navi
Pillay,
in
a
statement.
Prosecutors said Gen Rios Montt wanted to wipe out

the indigenous group, which he suspected of

supporting rebel fighters.