Former Sudan president in court

OMAR AL-BASHIR, the ousted former president of Sudan, is due to appear in court today for the first stage of his corruption trial.

Mr Bashir took power in a 1989 coup but was deposed in April after mass protests and security forces deciding to withdraw support for his regime, which was behind an alleged genocidal campaign in the Darfur region.

The 75-year-old faces allegations of possessing foreign currency, corruption and receiving gifts illegally.

Human rights groups and relatives of victims also want to see him stand trial at the International Criminal Court in The Hague for his role in the genocide of 300,000 people in Darfur.

“While this trial is a positive step towards accountability for some of his alleged crimes, he remains wanted for heinous crimes committed against the Sudanese people,” said Amnesty International. It comes as Sudan prepares to celebrate a historic deal between generals and protest leaders for a transition to civilian rule, which many hope will bring increased freedom and prosperity.

During a ceremony to be held by the Nile in Khartoum, members of the Transitional Military Council and protest leaders are expected to sign documents defining a 39-month transition.