Vincent: Hariri Court to Conduct Trial in Absentia if Syria Refuses to Hand Over Witnesses
Tribunal to Open Doors to Journalists on Tuesday
The international tribunal”s Registrar Robin Vincent has said that failure by Syria to hand over witnesses in the assassination of former Premier Rafik Hariri would be a "blow" to the U.N. Security Council.
If Syria failed to cooperate in this regard, it will be a "blow" to the Security Council, Vincent said in remarks published on Tuesday.
Syria”s negative response could compel the court to conduct trial in absentia, Vincent warned.
He pointed to measures being considered for the protection of the witnesses.
Vincent also spoke of "guarantees" to ensure the wellbeing of the witnesses, stressing that Dutch police enjoy excellent experience in this respect.
He said that the trials could last for more than six years.
The international tribunal”s Registrar Robin Vincent is expected to hold a news conference on Tuesday to speak about the work of the Special Tribunal for Lebanon which is due to start functioning March 1.
News reports said officials of the media sector will also hold a press conference at noon Tuesday to explain to media representatives assigned to court coverage how the tribunal in The Hague will function and inform them of the program of Sunday”s opening ceremony.
They said U.N. chief Ban Ki-moon was also likely to release a special report on Feb. 28. on the tribunal.